NEW DELHI: India presented a strong argument at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Thursday, advocating for equitable global action on climate change and emphasizing the disproportionate responsibilities between developed and developing nations.
In its submission, India asserted that it is unfair to expect nations with minimal historical emissions to shoulder the same burden as industrialized countries. “It is unjust to expect countries with negligible historical emissions to bear equal burden in mitigating climate change,” India stated.
Key Arguments from India
- Inadequate Climate Finance:
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- Luther M. Rangreji, joint secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted the insufficient financial support from developed nations.
- “Climate finance by developed nations is inadequate to meet developing countries’ needs in adapting to and mitigating climate change,” he argued.
- Unequal Responsibility:
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- India criticized the historical exploitation of resources by industrialized nations, stating that these countries bear a greater responsibility for the climate crisis.
- Rangreji noted, “If the contribution to degradation is unequal, the responsibility must also be unequal.”
- Disproportionate Impact on Developing Nations:
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- Despite their limited contribution to global emissions, developing nations face severe consequences of climate change.
- India underscored that developed countries, with their advanced technologies and financial capabilities, are better equipped to address the crisis. Rangreji remarked, “Countries that have reaped development benefits from exploiting fossil fuels now demand that developing nations forgo their own energy resources.”
- Unfulfilled Promises:
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- India criticized the unfulfilled pledge of $100 billion annually, promised by developed nations in 2009, as well as inadequate adaptation funding.
- The recently agreed-upon climate finance package at COP29 was deemed insufficient to meet the needs of developing countries.
- Sustainable Development Goals:
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- While reaffirming its commitment to the Paris Agreement, India stressed the limits of burdening its citizens, especially as it works to achieve sustainable development goals for a large and growing population.
Context of the Hearing
The ICJ hearing, initiated by Pacific Island nations including Vanuatu, involves over 98 countries presenting their views on the legal obligations of states regarding climate change. Although the ICJ’s advisory opinion will not be legally binding, it is expected to carry significant influence in shaping global climate policy.
India’s stance highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers historical emissions, current capabilities, and the disproportionate impact on developing nations as the world tackles the pressing climate crisis.
