Humanity as a diffuse legal subject and normative basis for universal climate obligations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.19135/revista.consinter.00021.05Keywords:
Climate change, erga omnes obligations, Paris Agreement, International Court of Justice, climate litigationAbstract
This article explores the evolving recognition of humanity as a diffuse subject of international law and its role as a normative foundation for universal climate obligations, particularly those of an erga omnes and omnium nature. Drawing on international treaties, multilateral resolutions, and recent jurisprudence, the analysis demonstrates how climate change is reshaping international legal paradigms, shifting from a state-centric framework to one based on shared global interests. The paper discusses the conceptual development of universal obligations, the role of States and international organizations in their implementation, and the structural shortcomings of the current climate regime. It further outlines pathways for enhancing climate governance through intergenerational justice, equitable burden-sharing, and institutional innovation. The study concludes that humanity acts not only as the beneficiary but also as the catalyst of a renewed legal paradigm capable of addressing the global climate crisis.
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