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Omnia Strategy Represents Albania at the ICJ.

2nd December 2024

The Hague, 

Omnia Strategy had the privilege of representing the Government of Albania at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) today in the advisory proceedings on the obligations of States in respect to climate change. The 10-day hearing, involving over 100 States and other participants, is a significant moment as the  ICJ prepares to issue its authoritative guidance on where international law now stands on this critical issue.

Albania’s oral submissions to the ICJ were delivered jointly by the Secretary General for the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Armand Skapi, and Omnia’s Cherie Blair CBE, KC. Albania was also represented in The Hague by Sir Daniel Bethlehem KCMG, KC of Twenty Essex, and Omnia Partner and Head of Human Rights Adam Smith-Anthony and Senior Associate Lauren Lederle.

In his address to the Court, Mr Skapi emphasised the inequities of the climate crisis and how developing and middle-income countries suffer its effects disproportionately, despite having contributed the least to global emissions. Stressing the urgency of the issue, Mr Skapi urged the Court to recognise that developed, industrialised States bear heightened responsibility to take meaningful action.

Mrs Blair drew attention to the intersection between climate change and human rights, highlighting the disproportionate burdens faced by women and girls and States’ responsibilities to be address this in their climate actions.

Omnia’s contribution is another product of its proud pro bono commitment and its longstanding relationship with the Government of Albania. Omnia has previously assisted in the preparation of Albania’s two written pleadings in March and August of this year (see our prior updates here and here).

Recognising the importance of these historic advisory proceedings, Mrs. Blair writes that:

“Climate change presents a complex and multifaceted challenge that intersects with fundamental principles of international law, human rights – including the responsibility of private actors in business contexts – and various legal regimes, including investment arbitration. Tackling these issues requires a holistic and integrated approach. Omnia is proud to support Albania in sharing its important perspectives with the Court, leveraging our team’s interdisciplinary expertise to contribute to this vital effort.

Albania’s participation in these pivotal advisory proceedings reflects its enduring leadership in climate advocacy, environmental justice and human rights, alongside its membership of the Human Rights Council.

We now look to the Court for a bold, clear, and precise articulation of States’ legal obligations in addressing climate change – guidance firmly rooted in science and designed to underpin an equitable and inclusive response to this existential threat.”

The hearing can be followed live here and Albania’s written submissions are accessible here.

The Omnia team representing Albania in these advisory proceedings also includes Ben Wheadon, Ivaylo Dimitrov, James Palmer, Jessica Sblendorio, Kevin Gerenni and Roberto Lupini

 

Full downloadable version of Press Release is available here: