Sierra Leone made a significant move on June 16, 2023, by submitting a formal request for an advisory opinion on climate change to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS).

In the submission, Sierra Leone presented a strong case, outlining three key elements.

Firstly, they established the jurisdiction of the tribunal to issue an advisory opinion on this matter. Secondly, they highlighted the legal obligations of nations to safeguard and preserve the marine environment from greenhouse gas emissions, stressing the need to reduce pollution and limit global temperature increases to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Lastly, Sierra Leone presented compelling scientific evidence demonstrating the severe damage climate change is inflicting on their marine ecosystems.

To make their case, the Government of Sierra Leone enlisted the expertise of esteemed legal professionals. Professors Charles Chernor Jalloh, Phoebe Okowa, and Dire D. Tladi served as counsel for Sierra Leone, supported by co-counsel Ms. Christina Hioureas and Mr. Andrew Loewenstein from Foley Hoag LLP. This legal team collaborated with the Open Society Justice Initiative and scientists from the Union of Concerned Scientists, amplifying their advocacy with expert knowledge.

Sierra Leone’s submission before the ITLOS signifies the country’s commitment to combatting climate change and protecting its marine environments. By seeking an advisory opinion, they aim to raise global awareness about the urgency of addressing climate change’s devastating impact on vulnerable regions.

The international community awaits the response of the ITLOS to Sierra Leone’s submission, as it holds the potential to shape future legal interpretations and obligations concerning climate change and marine preservation.