Pakistan, Dec. 19 -- Hundreds of Japanese citizens filed a historic lawsuit against their government on Thursday, claiming "unconstitutional" inaction on climate change has jeopardized their health, livelihoods, and right to a stable environment. The Tokyo District Court officially accepted the complaint, marking Japan's first state-focused climate compensation case.

Lead lawyer Akihiro Shima said the plaintiffs are seeking damages of 1,000 yen ($6.50) each, but stressed the central goal is to hold the government accountable for failing to implement adequate climate policies. "The defendant's climate change measures are grossly inadequate, and as a result, the plaintiffs' rights to a peaceful life and to the enjoyment of a stable climate...