Nobody Believed in the Case
On November 3rd, a special edition of The Handshake was held at The Hague Humanity Hub, featuring Jule Schnakenberg, CEO of World’s Youth for Climate Justice (WYCJ), a youth-led grassroots organisation using international law as an instrument to advance climate justice. Organised in collaboration with PLNT, as part of Ready to Explore: Green & Just Futures, the session was a chance for young climate changemakers to connect, reflect on the current state of the sector, and learn from Jule’s inspiring career journey and insights into climate justice.
People were saying ‘you’re trying to sue the world’
Jule shared tips and advice on how one can maximise their impact, informed by her experiences as a COP delegate and a leading figure in pushing for the International Court of Justice’s Advisory Opinion on States’ Obligations in respect of Climate Change. “For the first three years, nobody really believed the case would move forward,” she explained. “People were saying ‘you’re trying to sue the world’.”
Jule Schnakenberg at the Peace Palace during the ICJ Advisory Opinion Solidarity Demonstration, 23 July 2025 | Copyright: Sacha Verheij/The Hague Humanity Hub
Nonetheless, in 2025, the Court delivered its judgement reaffirming that states have an obligation to protect the climate from human-induced gas emissions. Jule reminded the audience that this was not an overnight win – for over 6 years, WYCJ established an international network with regional fronts in every continent to lobby the world’s governments to push for a United Nations resolution requesting the Court to hear the case. She credits international connections for much of this success: “It was key to successfully build a global story, while still keeping it regionally relevant,” empowering local voices.
Copyright: Sacha Verheij/The Hague Humanity Hub
We absolutely need to keep pushing, because otherwise this world will never move. Success will always come through trial and error.
When prompted by an attendee on how she stayed motivated, even when the case stalled, Jule reiterated the importance of perseverance. “We absolutely need to keep pushing, because otherwise this world will never move.” At the same time, she said “success will always come through trial and error.”
The Power of Youth
Jule started her journey at the age of 11, at a tree-planting initiative. “I never felt like I didn’t have a voice,” she added, explaining that children are empowered when they are actively involved in solving challenges.
Youth must also focus on their skills and expertise as changemakers.
“People respond differently to children and youth,” she went on, arguing that their perceived lack of self-interest gives them moral authority in the eyes of older generations. “We can leverage this dynamic to make our voices heard.” However, at the same time, she warns against solely relying on this: “youth must also focus on their skills and expertise as changemakers,” whether that comes through their academic and professional qualifications, their lived experiences, or even seemingly unrelated skills they have picked up along the way.
“I’m extremely hopeful about the next generation of climate advocates,” Jule shared, to end the session. “I think they are even better than some of the leaders we have today, that’s for sure!”
Jule Schnakenberg with two other young and trailblazing climate advocates: Nicole Ann Ponce (left) and Samira Ben Ali (middle) | Copyright: Sacha Verheij/The Hague Humanity Hub
Key takeaways
- “If you are in a position where you can speak up about climate issues, you absolutely have to.”
- “Nine out of ten people want their governments to do more about the climate, and this is a number based on research. But this seldom translates into action.”
- “People consider youth to be an important stakeholder. We have to lean into that, but we can’t rest on the fact that we are young – our perspective can include much more than just our age.”
- “Global movements need a universal message that can be adapted to make sense regionally, using local insights.”
By Harry Ioannou
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The Handshake
The Handshake provides a valuable opportunity to hear directly from experienced professionals working in peace and justice. In an open and informal setting, participants can ask questions, gain insight into career trajectories, and better understand the skills and qualities needed to succeed in the field.
This event is part of The Hague Humanity Hub Talent for Good programme, supporting students and young professionals in exploring purpose-driven career opportunities in The Hague and beyond. Whether you are at the start of your career or considering a transition, the Talent Hub can help you navigate the peace and justice sector.
For additional career inspiration and guidance, explore our Career Insights, an online resource featuring diverse career paths and practical advice from professionals in our community.
Discover opportunities through Talent for Good here.
Find out more about the Ready to Explore Programme