The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs submits to the ICJ the statement on the legal obligations of states regarding climate change

The Albanian Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs submits to the International Court of Justice a written statement on the legal obligations of states regarding climate change.

Tirana - The Government of Albania reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to the fight against climate change in a detailed written submission to the International Court of Justice ("ICJ") in The Hague. The ICJ is considering a request from the United Nations General Assembly to clarify the legal obligations of States with respect to climate change and is expected to deliver an opinion in due course: Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change (Request for Advisory Opinion).

Albania's written statement follows Prime Minister Rama's comments at COP28 that "for decades on end developing countries like ours have striven tirelessly to tackle development challenges while contending with the negative impact of climate change" and draws attention to the disproportionate burden placed on developing countries in confronting the climate emergency, despite their minimal contribution to its causes. It further calls on developing States to acknowledge their distinct responsibility in respect of climate change and deliver transformative action.

Albania's written statement was prepared by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs in coordination with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, and the National Agency of Civil Protection, and was supported by international leading counsel and experts, and the Albanian diaspora.

The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs firmly believes that these advisory procedures can promote a more unified and effective global response to climate change and play a key role in environmental protection for current and future generations. Albania is proud to contribute to these procedures, drawing on the experience it has gained in promoting green energy utilization and addressing climate change.