Australia Supports Resolution Without Co-sponsoring
On 21 May 2026, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution initiated by Vanuatu and 12 other nations. This resolution affirms state obligations on climate change as per the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion.
The resolution, receiving 141 votes in favour, 8 against, and 28 abstentions, calls on governments to align their policies with legal commitments to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Australia supported the resolution but did not co-sponsor it.
The resolution emphasises deep, rapid, and sustained emissions reductions, alongside the regulation of fossil fuel companies. It also mandates a report from the UN Secretary-General in 2027 to advance compliance.
Pacific Leadership in Climate Advocacy
Shiva Gounden, Head of Pacific at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, highlighted the Pacific’s influential role in shaping the global climate agenda. He stated the importance of translating the voices of frontline communities into international action.
“While it is positive that Australia voted in favour of the resolution, Australia should have gone much further to stand with its Pacific family by co-sponsoring the resolution,” Gounden remarked. He advocated for a stronger commitment as Australia prepares for COP31.
In July 2025, the ICJ issued an advisory opinion underscoring states’ legal obligations under international law to protect the climate system. This involves emissions reduction, international cooperation, and holding corporate polluters accountable.
Strengthening the political and legal impact of the ICJ’s opinion, the resolution is expected to apply pressure on governments to meet their obligations and limit global warming to 1.5°C.
Vanuatu and other Pacific nations have led global efforts to address climate change, emphasizing their unique vulnerability to its impacts. Pacific communities have fought for this resolution because they are already experiencing the consequences of the climate crisis. They will continue fighting until there is a fast, fair, and funded phase-out of fossil fuels.
The UNGA resolution is expected to strengthen the political and legal weight of the Advisory Opinion across international negotiations, national policymaking, and climate litigation. This outcome aims to ensure the realization of human rights for current and future generations to experience a life of dignity.
The resolution reaffirms the Court’s findings and calls on governments to deliver emissions cuts, regulate fossil fuel companies, and protect the right to a healthy environment. It requests the UN Secretary-General to submit a report in 2027 on advancing compliance with all obligations related to the Court’s findings.
