International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the body of the United Nations (UN) that gives advisory opinions on legal matters to the bodies and special agencies of the UN. It is the principal judicial organ of the UN and is located at The Hague, Netherlands. The ICJ plays a crucial role in the interpretation and application of international law.

Advisory Opinions:
The ICJ provides advisory opinions upon request from authorized UN organs and specialized agencies. These advisory opinions are non-binding, meaning that they are not legally binding on the requesting body or any other party. However, they carry significant weight and are highly respected in the international community.

Authority to Request an Advisory Opinion:
The bodies and special agencies of the UN have the authority to request advisory opinions from the ICJ. This includes the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, and any other authorized agencies.

The General Assembly and Security Council:
The General Assembly and the Security Council are the main bodies of the UN that can request advisory opinions from the ICJ. The General Assembly is composed of all member states and has the power to discuss and make recommendations on any matter within the scope of the UN Charter. The Security Council, on the other hand, is responsible for maintaining international peace and security and has the power to take actions in response to threats to peace or acts of aggression.

Importance of Advisory Opinions:
Advisory opinions are sought by UN bodies and specialized agencies to seek legal guidance on complex issues. The ICJ's advisory opinions help these bodies in making informed decisions and shaping their policies and actions in accordance with international law. The opinions also contribute to the development and clarification of international law.

Conclusion:
The International Court of Justice plays a vital role in providing advisory opinions on legal matters to the bodies and special agencies of the UN. Its opinions help in the interpretation and application of international law, contributing to the maintenance of peace, security, and justice at the international level.