Modernizing the Role of the International Court of Justice

The book discusses the future role of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a world facing survival challenges, such as climate change, environmental degradation, and pandemics. It proposes that the ICJ can apply a jurisdictional provision in Article 36 of its statute to deal with these issues, and presents three examples of issues that would require the urgent attention of the ICJ. Bertrand Ramcharan, a Barrister-at-Law of Lincolns Inn and Doctorate in international law from the London School of Economics, argues that the ICJ has the expertise and independence to carry out these functions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 195 pages
Publication date: 18 March 2023
Publisher: T.M.C. Asser Press

The book explores the future role of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a world grappling with formidable challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation, and pandemics. It emphasizes the critical need for the ICJ to assume judicial, security, and protection functions, as it is the sole organ of the United Nations (UN) capable of fulfilling these responsibilities due to its independence and expertise.

The author suggests that the ICJ can utilize a hitherto untapped jurisdictional provision in Article 36 of its statute, enabling it to address matters specifically provided for in the UN Charter. To illustrate the urgency of these matters, the author presents three examples: vaccine equity in a global pandemic, climate disaster, and mass movements of people due to climate change and environmental degradation.

Bertrand Ramcharan, a Barrister-at-Law of Lincolns Inn and a Doctorate in international law from the London School of Economics (LSE), is the author. He has held prestigious positions such as LSE International Law Scholar, Commissioner of the International Commission of Jurists, and Member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Ramcharan has also served as the Director of the Research Centre of the Hague Academy of International Law (The Right to Life), Professor at the Geneva Graduate Institute, and Chancellor of the University of Guyana. He has a wealth of experience in the UN, including serving as the former Chief speech-writer of the UN Secretary-General and as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. His doctoral thesis focused on the approach of the International Law Commission to the codification and progressive development of international law.

The book sheds light on the pivotal role of the ICJ in addressing global challenges and ensuring the survival of humanity. It underscores the importance of international cooperation and the need for the international community to recognize the unique capabilities of the ICJ in addressing these pressing issues.

Weight: 343g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789462655218
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022