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The students behind the historic ICJ climate ruling

Jul 28, 2025 •

Countries have a legal obligation to tackle climate change, according to a landmark finding from the world’s highest court.

Last week, the International Court of Justice issued an advisory opinion that said climate change is an “urgent and existential threat” to humanity and countries have a “duty to cooperate” on addressing it.

For the Pacific Island students who brought their case to the ICJ, the ruling marks the end of a six year fight. They hope it also marks the start of a new chapter where others can apply the ruling to hold polluting governments to account.

Today, reporter Cheyne Anderson on what we owe smaller nation states, and the implications for Australia.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

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The students behind the historic ICJ climate ruling

1624 • Jul 28, 2025

The students behind the historic ICJ climate ruling

Countries have a legal obligation to tackle climate change, according to a landmark finding from the world’s highest court.

Last week, the International Court of Justice issued an advisory opinion that said climate change is an “urgent and existential threat” to humanity and countries have a “duty to cooperate” on addressing it.

For the Pacific Island students who brought their case to the ICJ, the ruling marks the end of a six year fight. They hope it also marks the start of a new chapter where others can apply the ruling to hold polluting governments to account.

Today, reporter Cheyne Anderson on what we owe smaller nation states, and the implications for Australia.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

Guest: Reporter Cheyne Anderson

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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.

It’s made by Atticus Bastow, Cheyne Anderson, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Ruby Jones, Sarah McVeigh, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.

Our theme music is by Ned Beckley and Josh Hogan of Envelope Audio.





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1624: The students behind the historic ICJ climate ruling