Practice question
Two officials debate sustainable development. One says any income-generating project must prevail over environmental law; the other says the principle prohibits every project affecting nature. Which position fits Rio Principle4 and the ICJ2025 main opinion?
- The first because revenue is always conclusive.
- Neither: the principle seeks reconciliation and guides relevant legal interpretation rather than either automatic extreme.
- The second because development has no recognized role.
- Both because the principle has no content.
- Whichever official speaks last determines legality.
Legal references
- Rio Declaration (1992), Principles1,3–5 and15: https://www.cbd.int/doc/ref/rio-declaration.shtml
- ICJ, Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change, Advisory Opinion, July23 2025, main opinion, paragraphs147–158 and precaution discussion: https://icj-web.leman.un-icc.cloud/sites/default/files/case-related/187/187-20250723-adv-01-00-en.pdf
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