Study of the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of the Law of the Sea Requested by the Commission of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law

On May 21, 2024, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea issued its advisory opinion in the context of the issues submitted for opinion by the Commission of Small Island States on climate change and international law; This opinion constitutes a foundational reference for international law regarding the obligations of States in environmental matters and the fight against Climate Change in the seas and oceans. This study analyzes several elements that arise from the ruling, such as the jurisdiction of the Court; the applicability of various international law instruments beyond those on climate change; and, the establishment of marine protected areas as an ideal tool for the fight against Climate Change in accordance with international treaties on the Law of the Sea and Environmental Matters.