On October 7, 2026, in Abuja, Charlyne M. Brumskine, a Liberian lawyer, took an oath to serve the West African region "honorably, faithfully, impartially and conscientiously" as a judge of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice. This appointment marks her as the first Liberian woman to sit on the bench for the 2026-2030 term. Her swearing-in ceremony was attended by representatives from various West African nations.
Charlyne Brumskine's appointment was the result of a competitive screening process by the ECOWAS Judicial Council and an appointment by the Authority of Heads of State and Government at the Freetown summit. The Liberian lawyer has practiced law for over two decades and has taught in Liberian law schools. She has also been involved in promoting legal awareness among ordinary people.
Brumskine's background includes standing as the running mate of Alexander Cummings in the 2023 presidential election. Her father, Cllr. Charles Walker Brumskine, was a renowned lawyer and politician who served as President Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate from 1997 to 1999. He was a founding member of the Liberty Party and contested the presidency three times between 2005 and 2017.
Charlyne Brumskine's achievement is seen as a milestone for Liberia and Liberian women. Her father, Charles Brumskine, passed away on November 20, 2019, leaving a legacy of upholding the rule of law. His daughter's appointment to the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice is viewed as a testament to his teachings and legacy.
As a judge on the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, Brumskine will be dealing with cases involving human rights and other regional issues. The court's individual human rights docket is its busiest, and Brumskine's role will involve ensuring that judgments are fair, clear, and well-reasoned.
One of the challenges facing the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice is the issue of enforcing its judgments, which are often ignored by governments. Brumskine will need to rely on writing judgments that are compelling and difficult for governments to disregard. Her independence and loyalty will be to the treaty, evidence, and truth.
Brumskine's appointment has been hailed as a victory for Liberia and Liberian women. She has stated that this achievement belongs to "Liberia, Liberian women." Her role on the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice is expected to inspire young girls and women in Liberia and across Africa to pursue careers in law and leadership.
Key points
- Charlyne Brumskine is the first Liberian woman to serve as a judge on the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice.
- Brumskine's appointment was the result of a competitive screening process by the ECOWAS Judicial Council.
- She will be dealing with cases involving human rights and other regional issues on the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice.
