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ARTICLE · 26 MARCH 2026

The Evolving Landscape Of Global Climate Change Litigation: Perspectives For 2026

McCann FitzGerald LLP
McCann FitzGerald LLP
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McCann FitzGerald LLP

McCann FitzGerald LLP

McCann FitzGerald LLP’s London office acts for Irish, UK and international clients on Irish law...

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Climate related litigation continues to evolve, with several recent landmark decisions shaping the global legal landscape. In this update, we consider the broad trends in recent climate litigation...

GlobalEnvironment
Ciara Ryan
Ciara Ryan
Audrey Byrne
Audrey Byrne
Karen Quigley
Karen Quigley

Climate related litigation continues to evolve, with several recent landmark decisions shaping the global legal landscape. In this update, we consider the broad trends in recent climate litigation, and what to expect for 2026.

ICJ Advisory Opinion on the Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change

On 23 July 2025, the International Court of Justice (“ICJ”) delivered its unanimous Advisory Opinion on the Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change. Significantly, the ICJ found that countries' international law obligations are not limited to those agreed to under climate treaties (such as the Paris Agreement), but stem also from duties under both human rights and customary international law. The ICJ also found that failure to comply with those obligations could expose countries to concrete legal risks.

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