Whales in court: Australia v Japan in The Hague

Proceedings have just begun in the International Court of Justice in The Hague, where Australia is contesting the legality of Japans annual Southern Ocean whale hunt. A decision is expected early next year. In 2007 the Rudd Government pledged to explore international legal options to halt Japans conduct of its JARPA II whaling program in the Southern Ocean. After exhausting diplomatic initiatives, Australia announced in 2010 that it would commence legal proceedings against Japan in the International Court, the highest court in the international legal system. Australia and Japan have now lodged their written submissions and dates have been set for the round of oral submissions. The hearings commence on 26 June and run until 16 July, during which both countries will make their primary arguments, followed by a short reply.