On Tuesday 3 December, in the early hours of our morning, the Australian Government will appear before the International Court of Justice in The Hague, to provide an oral pleading to inform the ICJ’s advisory opinion on States’ obligations to address climate change under international law.

How did we get here?

In April 2023, spearheaded by the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu, and backed by over 130 countries, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution requesting the International Court of Justice to provide an advisory opinion clarifying States’ obligations under international law to protect the climate “for present and future generations.”

This landmark resolution seeks clarity on the legal consequences for countries whose actions – or inactions – “have caused significant harm to the climate system and other parts of the environment,” especially for the Small Island Developing States most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.

The International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion, though not legally binding, could set a powerful legal standard, clarifying the rights and obligations of countries to tackle climate change under international law.

How will the Australian Government plead its case?

What would a strong advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice mean for Australia and future multilateral negotiations?

At 11am (AEDT) on Tuesday 3 December, join the Australia Institute, Greenpeace Australia Pacific, and the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change as we watch and analyse Australia’s oral pleading, and discuss its implications for the world.

Speakers

Katrina Bullock | General Counsel, Greenpeace Australia Pacific

Katrina Bullock is an award-winning lawyer recognised as a 2024 Australasian Lawyer’s Rising Star and a winner of the 2020 Lawyers Weekly 30 under 30 Corporate Counsel Award.

She began her career as a commercial lawyer at a top-tier Australian firm before transitioning in-house within the tech and environmental sectors. In 2018, Katrina was appointed General Counsel of Greenpeace Australia Pacific where she has had the opportunity to work with allies across the sector on game-changing litigation and impactful campaigns. Admitted to the Supreme Court of New South Wales and the High Court of Australia, she is deeply passionate about environmental sustainability, movement lawyering and climate justice. Katrina holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of International Business.

Shiva Gounden | Head of Pacific, Greenpeace Australia Pacific

Shiva Gounden leads the Pacific campaign at Greenpeace Australia Pacific. He is an accomplished advocate for environmental sustainability and climate justice, with a focus on empowering communities in the Pacific region. With extensive experience in campaign strategy and community engagement, Shiva has worked with various organizations to promote initiatives that address climate change and protect natural resources.

Known for his collaborative approach, he emphasizes the importance of inclusive decision-making and the principles of accountability and transparency in environmental policy. Shiva is dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of fossil fuels and advocating for sustainable solutions that benefit both the people and the Pacific Islands.

Host: Leanne Minshull | Strategic Director, the Australia Institute