As previously reported, the ICJ would invite states entitled to appear before the ICJ and any international organisations likely to be able to furnish information to submit written statements in respect of Obligations of States in respect of climate change (Request for an Advisory Opinion). By Order of 20 April 2023, the ICJ:
Obligations of States in respect of climate change (Request for an Advisory Opinion), Order of 20 April 2023 (emphasis added)
- Decides that the United Nations and its Member States are considered likely to be able to furnish information on the questions submitted to the Court for an advisory opinion and may do so within the time-limits fixed in this Order;
- Fixes 20 October 2023 as the time-limit within which written statements on the questions may be presented to the Court, in accordance with Article 66, paragraph 2, of the Statute;
- Fixes 22 January 2024 as the time-limit within which States and organizations having presented written statements may submit written comments on the written statements made by other States or organizations, in accordance with Article 66, paragraph 4, of the Statute; and Reserves the subsequent procedure for further decision.
For more information see the case overview at General List No 187. Note, this Order is without prejudice to the possibility of the further addition of participants to the proceedings by authorisation of the ICJ. For example, this has occurred recently in response to a request from the African Union in other ongoing –but completely separate– ICJ Advisory Opinion proceedings (ICJ Press Release No. 2023/19).
De Maribus 