India Criticises Developed Countries for Climate Crisis During ICJ Hearing

India has criticised developed nations for their role in the climate crisis during a significant hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The country accused these nations of exploiting the global carbon budget and failing to meet climate-finance commitments. India also highlighted that developed countries are now asking developing nations to limit their resource use. The ICJ is currently assessing the legal obligations countries have to combat climate change and the repercussions if they do not comply.

India urged the ICJ to avoid imposing new obligations beyond the current climate-change framework. The country emphasised the importance of considering historical emissions, climate justice, and equitable access to the global carbon budget. China and the United States also stated that the existing UN framework is adequate for determining states' legal responsibilities in addressing climate change.

Equity and Responsibility in Climate Action

Luther M Rangreji, a joint secretary in India's Ministry of External Affairs, argued that unequal contributions to environmental degradation should result in unequal responsibilities. He stressed that while climate change is a global issue requiring a global solution, solutions must adhere to principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR-RC). India believes it is unfair for countries with minimal historical emissions to bear an equal burden in mitigating climate change.

India called on developed nations to lead by example by achieving net-zero emissions before 2050 and providing support to developing countries. Rangreji pointed out that developing nations suffer most from climate change despite contributing least to it. He criticised wealthy countries for benefiting from fossil fuels while discouraging developing nations from using their energy resources.

Climate Finance Commitments

India highlighted that obligations under the Paris Agreement for developing countries depend on two factors: climate finance and climate justice. The country criticised the lack of action on climate-finance commitments, noting that the USD 100 billion pledged at Copenhagen COP in 2009 has not materialised into concrete actions. India described the new climate-finance package agreed at COP29 as insufficient for meeting urgent needs.

The nation emphasised that climate finance is crucial for planning ambitious climate actions and building trust in multilateral efforts. Any fair assessment of state obligations must consider the climate-finance support provided. India reiterated its commitment to its Paris Agreement targets but warned against overburdening its citizens while pursuing Sustainable Development Goals.

India's Climate Contributions

Despite having priorities like poverty eradication, India has made significant contributions to global climate actions. The country accounts for about 17.8% of the world's population but has historically contributed less than 4% to climate change. India's per capita greenhouse gas emissions are less than half of the global average, yet it continues to undertake ambitious national climate actions.

India also noted that science behind climate change is evolving and may carry biases based on evidence interpretation choices. Therefore, decisions on responsibilities should not rely solely on scientific guidance. The ICJ hearing follows years of advocacy by Pacific island nations and Vanuatu, leading to a UN resolution requesting an advisory opinion from the court.

Over two weeks, 98 countries will present their views at the hearing, including small island nations and major emitters. Although non-binding, the ICJ's opinion could establish a moral and legal standard in global efforts against climate change.