A landmark General Assembly resolution adopted on Wednesday [20th May] is “a powerful affirmation” of international law, climate justice and science, according to UN chief António Guterres.
The Secretary-General said it makes clear Member States’ responsibility to protect their own people from what is an “escalating climate crisis”.
The resolution drawn up by Vanuatu – a Pacific island nation on the frontline of the climate crisis, and several other countries – was adopted after intense discussion including multiple proposed amendments with 141 votes in favour [including Australia], eight against and 28 abstentions.
Those voting against were Belarus, Iran, Israel, Liberia, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the US and Yemen…
The resolution calls on all UN Member States to take all possible steps to avoid causing significant damage to the climate and environment, including emissions produced within their borders, and to follow through on their existing climate pledges under the Paris Agreement.
Source: UN News
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