The Economic Community of West Africa's (ECOWAS) Community Court of Justice has announced that its 2026 International Conference will take place in Dakar, Senegal, from September 21-25, 2026. The event will bring together senior judicial and government officials from ECOWAS member states, heads of ECOWAS institutions, national court officials, legal practitioners, academics, and representatives from civil society organizations, development partners, and international organizations.
The conference theme, “ECOWAS Court of Justice at the Crossroads: Justice, Innovation, Human Rights Protection and the Future of Regional Integration in West Africa,” reflects the critical moment for the Court and regional integration. According to the Court's President, the conference will facilitate deep reflection, dialogue, and collective action on how regional justice can effectively respond to emerging challenges while strengthening human rights protection and embracing innovation.
The conference will feature seven thematic sessions examining key issues, including human rights jurisprudence, enforcement and compliance, artificial intelligence and data protection, arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), the proposed appellate chamber, environmental justice, and refugee protection and forced displacement. These discussions aim to address emerging challenges and explore 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 produce actionable recommendations and an Outcome Document outlining strategic priorities for the future of the Court and regional integration in West Africa.
The Community Court of Justice, as the principal judicial organ of ECOWAS, is mandated to interpret and apply Community law, adjudicate disputes, and address human rights violations within member states. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in upholding justice, strengthening the rule of law, protecting human rights, and advancing regional integration across West Africa.
The conference comes at a critical moment for the Court and the broader regional integration process. It will provide a platform for stakeholders to engage in dialogue and collective action on strengthening human rights protection, enhancing enforcement of Court decisions, advancing digital innovation, and addressing emerging environmental and displacement challenges.
The Community Court of Justice is set to welcome distinguished participants to Dakar, Senegal, for this important dialogue on building a more effective, accessible, innovative, and human rights-centered regional justice system. The conference is expected to attract senior judicial and government officials, heads of ECOWAS institutions, and other key stakeholders.
Key points
- The ECOWAS Court of Justice's 2026 International Conference will focus on justice, innovation, and human rights protection in regional integration.
- The conference will feature seven thematic sessions on key issues, including human rights jurisprudence and environmental justice.
- The event aims to produce actionable recommendations and an Outcome Document outlining strategic priorities for the future of the Court and regional integration.
