The UK Government has announced the nomination of Professor Dapo Akande for a position on the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The election for this role will take place in 2026.
His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Joanna Roper CMG, confirmed the nomination in a statement on the UK Government’s website.
Roper stated, “The UK is pleased to announce that Professor Dapo Akande will be nominated for election as a judge to the International Court of Justice in 2026 by the UK National Group.”
Roper praised Akande as an “outstanding international lawyer” who will bring significant legal expertise to the ICJ.
She highlighted Akande’s contributions to international justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
Professor Dapo Akande is currently the Chichele Professor of Public International Law at the University of Oxford.
He is also a Fellow at All Souls College, Oxford, and serves as co-director of the Oxford Institute for Ethics, Law and Armed Conflict (ELAC).
Akande has made significant contributions to the field of international law.
His achievements include becoming the first Black professor to have a portrait placed at St Peter’s College, Oxford.
In addition to his academic roles, Akande is a respected thought leader.
He is the founding editor of EJIL:Talk!, a prominent blog associated with the European Journal of International Law.
This blog is known for its scholarly discussions and debates on important issues in international law.
Akande’s expertise and influence were further recognized in November 2021 when he was elected to the United Nations International Law Commission for the term 2023-2027.
This election took place during the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Akande’s nomination to the UN International Law Commission was notable for its broad support. He was nominated by five countries: the United Kingdom, Japan, Kenya, Slovenia, and Nigeria. This nomination was remarkable as it came from four different United Nations regional groups, showcasing his wide international recognition.
The International Court of Justice, based in The Hague, is the principal judicial body of the United Nations.
It settles legal disputes between states and gives advisory opinions on international legal issues.