On November 26, 2024, a distinguished team of current and former scientists from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) met with judges from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague to share critical insights from the IPCC's assessment reports. These reports, which are foundational in understanding the scientific basis of climate change, its impacts, risks, and strategies for adaptation and mitigation, have shaped global climate policies and actions.

The meeting, led by IPCC Chair Jim Skea, was part of the ICJ’s preparation for an advisory opinion on state obligations regarding climate change. This advisory opinion was requested by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 77/276, underscoring the importance of clarifying the legal responsibilities of states in addressing the global climate crisis.

Among the key scientists present was a prominent Jamaican Climate Science, Professor Tannecia Stephenson, co-director of the Climate Studies Group Mona, Faculty of Science and  at The University of the West Indies. Professor Stephenson served as the Lead Author for Chapter 10 of the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) Working Group I, a chapter that focuses on the physical science basis of climate change. Her extensive work in the field of climate science and her leadership role in the IPCC’s assessment process has positioned her as a leading voice in the global conversation on climate action.

Professor Stephenson’s participation in this high-level meeting highlights her significant contributions to advancing climate science on the international stage. Her expertise in climate modeling, extreme weather events, and the role of human activity in accelerating global warming continues to make a profound impact on global climate policy.

As the world faces escalating climate challenges, the insights shared by Professor Stephenson and her fellow IPCC scientists will play a crucial role in guiding international legal frameworks and informing the ICJ’s opinion on state responsibilities in combating climate change.

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