#EndorseTheAO is a campaign that originated in the Pacific and is led by former USP Students, including Solomon Yeo (Campaign Director), Vishal Prasad (Campaigner), and Romabeth Siri (Campaigner). The idea for the campaign emerged in 2019 after Law students at the University of the South Pacific attended a presentation on the nexus of climate change and human rights.
The #EndorseTheAO campaign encourages state leaders to seek an Advisory Opinion from the International Court of Justice on climate change and human rights. The International Court of Justice is the highest court and an advisory opinion from the court carries great moral and legal authority. An Advisory Opinion on the issue is important as it has the potential to be a legal catalyst for climate change action whilst clarifying international law on climate change. A vote in favour of the resolution at the upcoming 77th session of the UN General Assembly will reflect a global commitment to fight the climate crisis and protect human rights. It will put the protection of human rights at the heart of our struggle for climate justice.
