The ECOWAS Court of Justice has convened an International Conference to deliberate on some of its most pressing challenges. The event, themed "ECOWAS Court of Justice at the Crossroads: Justice, Innovation, Human Rights Protection and the Future of Regional Integration in West Africa," will hold from September 21 to 26 in Dakar, Senegal. The conference aims to provide a platform for deep reflection, dialogue, and collective action on how regional justice can respond effectively to emerging challenges.
The conference is expected to produce actionable recommendations and an outcome document setting out strategic priorities for the future of the Court and regional integration in West Africa. Senior judicial and government officials of ECOWAS Member States, Heads of ECOWAS Institutions, Heads of national courts, legal practitioners, academics, civil society organisations, development partners, international organisations, and members of the press are expected to attend the conference.
Seven thematic sessions will examine human rights jurisprudence, judgment enforcement and compliance, artificial intelligence, data protection, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution, the proposed appellate chamber, environmental justice, refugee protection, and forced displacement. Discussions will focus on strengthening human rights protection, enhancing enforcement of Court decisions, advancing digital innovation, addressing emerging environmental and displacement challenges, and exploring new pathways for regional commercial dispute resolution.
The conference will promote knowledge-sharing, partnerships, and practical solutions for strengthening regional justice delivery through plenary sessions, expert panel discussions, roundtables, and an exhibition. The event is expected to bring together distinguished participants for a critical dialogue on building a more effective, accessible, innovative, and human rights-centred regional justice system.
The ECOWAS Court of Justice stated that the conference is coming at a critical moment for the Community Court and the broader ECOWAS integration process. The Court aims to welcome distinguished participants to Dakar for this important dialogue on building a more effective regional justice system.
The conference will provide a platform for stakeholders to engage in deep reflection, dialogue, and collective action on emerging challenges facing regional justice. It aims to strengthen human rights protection and promote innovation in the delivery of regional justice.
The International Conference is a significant step towards addressing the pressing challenges facing the ECOWAS Court of Justice. The event is expected to produce actionable recommendations that will shape the future of the Court and regional integration in West Africa.
Key points
- The ECOWAS Court of Justice is convening an International Conference to address pressing challenges, including judgment enforcement and human rights protection.
