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Paper short abstract

This study analyzes modal verbs and directive speech in environmental laws to reveal how discretionary obligations are expressed. Results highlight the balance between enforceability and flexibility, emphasizing language's role in advancing governance and Sustainable Development Goals.

Paper long abstract

This forensic-legal study examines how modal verbs and directive speech acts encode legal obligations in environmental laws and treaties using a mixed-methods approach. Analyzing 323 documents from 2019 to 2024 via corpus linguistics, critical discourse analysis, and bibliometric mapping, the research identifies dominant obligation markers such as "shall" and "must" for binding duties, and "should" and "may" for softer, discretionary obligations. Directive speech is conveyed through imperative modalities, hedging, performative verbs, conditional clauses, and enumerated obligations, reflecting a nuanced balance between legal enforceability and diplomatic flexibility. The study highlights emerging trends toward data-driven, interdisciplinary methodologies and an increased focus on vagueness, ambiguity, and comparative legal linguistics. These findings present the importance of precise linguistic formulation in enhancing the clarity, adaptability, and authority of environmental governance frameworks. Ultimately, this research contributes to advancing UN Sustainable Development Goals 13 (Climate Action), 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).