The International Court of Justice (ICJ) plays a central role in resolving disputes between states and clarifying the obligations that arise under international law. This committee will examine two important cases concerning environmental protection, state responsibility, and the evolving relationship between national sovereignty and international environmental obligations: Pulp Mills on the River Uruguay (Argentina v. Uruguay, 2010) and Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change.

The Pulp Mills on the River Uruguay case concerned a dispute between Argentina and Uruguay over Uruguay’s authorization and construction of pulp mills along the Uruguay River, a resource shared by both states. Argentina argued that Uruguay had violated its obligations under the 1975 Statute of the River Uruguay by failing to properly notify and consult Argentina before authorizing the projects. Argentina also raised concerns regarding potential environmental harm to the river and surrounding ecosystem. Judges should consider how states sharing natural resources can balance economic development with their responsibility to prevent environmental damage beyond their borders. The second topic, Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change, addresses the broader question of what international law requires states to do in response to climate change. The issue involves questions of state responsibility, prevention of environmental harm, international cooperation, human rights, and obligations toward present and future generations. Delegates will need to consider how existing international law, including principles concerning transboundary harm and environmental protection, applies to greenhouse-gas emissions and the consequences of climate change. The topic also raises questions concerning the responsibilities of states whose historical and present emissions differ significantly, as well as the legal relationship between climate agreements and broader principles of international law.

Together, these topics provide an opportunity to examine how the ICJ approaches environmental disputes where scientific uncertainty, economic interests, national sovereignty, and international cooperation intersect. Delegates should focus on the legal arguments available to states, the evidence necessary to establish violations of international obligations, and the circumstances under which states may be held responsible for environmental damage. Through the committee, delegates will be expected to develop arguments based on international legal principles and precedent while considering how international law can address increasingly complex environmental challenges.