Tonga presented its oral statement at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) during historic proceedings on states’ obligations regarding climate change.
Attorney General Hon. Linda Simiki Folaumoetu‘i and external legal counsel Ms. Gitanjali Bajaj delivered Tonga’s oral statement last Thursday.
Tonga was among 97 states and 12 international organizations participating in the proceedings, which seek an advisory opinion on global climate responsibilities.
The hearings were held from 2-13 December 2024 at the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands.

The statement expanded on Tonga’s previously filed Written Statement, submitted to the ICJ Registry earlier this year in March.
Tonga’s participation highlights its commitment to climate action and highlights the challenges faced by small island developing states in the global fight against climate change.
The ICJ’s advisory opinion is anticipated to provide guidance on international climate obligations.