Cook Islands has made history by concluding its participation in the oral hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the request for an advisory opinion on the obligations of States in relation to climate change.

This milestone follows over a year of Pacific-wide collaboration and represents a critical step in addressing the climate crisis and the unique challenges faced by small island developing states on the front lines of its impacts.

The delegation, led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) Director of the Treaties, Multilaterals and Oceans Division, Sandrina Thondoo, included Foreign Service Officer Peka Fisher and External Counsel Fuamaono Dylan Asafo.

Together, they joined representatives from over 100 States and international organisations to present compelling arguments before the 15 judges of the Court. The hearings, which began on December 2, will continue until December 13, 2024.

“As a small island nation, and like most of the Pacific, we are already experiencing the devastating effects of climate change. It’s not just altering our way of life but fundamentally threatening our very existence,” said Thondoo during her address.

The Cook Islands’ contributions to the hearings can be viewed via the official ICJ recording at UN Web TV and the national statement can be viewed at https://mfai.gov.ck/important-resources

Thondoo’s delivery of the national statement was supplemented by a powerful statement from Vaine Wichman, President of the Cook Islands National Council of Women.

Representing the Cook Islands’ Non-Governmental Agency, Wichman spoke movingly about the profound impacts of climate change on the Cook Islands, adding a crucial and deeply personal perspective to the presentation.

MFAI extend their appreciation to Wichman for her invaluable contribution and to the International Court of Justice for enabling this historic opportunity for the Cook Islands to present their voice alongside others who are demanding climate justice. MFAI