Annual Report of the International Court of Justice

Remarks by H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly

New York,

October 28,  2021

President Joan E. Donoghue,

Excellencies,

Distinguished delegates,

Thank you for joining today for the presentation of the Annual Report of the International Court of Justice.

My sincere appreciation to President Joan E. Donoghue for her able leadership of the Court. 

As the “World Court”, the International Court of Justice is the principal judicial organ under the United Nations System, charged to assist in the peaceful resolution of disputes between states and to provide “advisory opinions.”

For 76 years, the Court has faithfully discharged its mandate. In the process it has contributed to the rule of law and helped advance international peace and security.

It has maintained its legitimacy and importance as one of the primary organs of our Organization.

Indeed, the ICJ has been truly transformative in advancing the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Charter.

At the same time, the Court, like the rest of the multilateral system, has had to adapt with changing times. Hearings and judicial meetings by videoconference represent a fundamental change in the Court’s practice and culture. 

In an increasingly interconnected and complex world, the Court has also had to manage global issues, ranging from environmental protection and terrorism, to human rights and human trafficking.

Dear colleagues,

Allow me to convey three key points:

First, trust and reliance in the Court echoes our reliance upon a multilateral system.

Currently, there are 14 cases submitted to the Court involving States from five continents. Topics range from territorial and maritime disputes, to issues on diplomatic missions and consular offices, to interpretation and application of international treaties and conventions.

The quantity and diversity of issues presented before the Court, from countries the world over, is indicative of the trust that Member States place in it. It reaffirms its role as an impartial and objective institution in the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

I understand that a total of 74 states have made a declaration accepting as “compulsory” the jurisdiction of the Court. I encourage other states to do the same.

Second, it is essential that we accept the decisions of the Court and implement them.

The Court’s judgements affect the development and advancement of international law.

Respect for the Court’s decisions, judgments, and opinions is critical to ensure the success of the international justice, including a rule base international order.

Third, youth participation and engagement is an important priority.

I am pleased to hear that the Court has a particular interest in improving young people’s understanding of international law and the Court’s procedures, as evidenced by the Judicial Fellowship Programme.

Having recently launched a fellowship programme in the Office of the President of the General Assembly, I am very much aware of the importance of such endeavours. I commend the Court, its Registrar and Member States for pursuing this agenda.

Excellencies,

I would like to convey my deepest condolences on the passing of His Excellency Judge James Richard Crawford, on 31 May 2021.

Judge Crawford dedicated his life to international law and enjoyed a brilliant career. My sympathies to his family and colleagues.

In closing, I would like to thank you again for the presentation of this Annual Report.

Through its efforts, the Court strengthens international peace and security, and promotes advancement in areas of human rights, and sustainable development.  

I wish the Court every success.

And I thank you.