Sierra Leone has nominated one of its most distinguished legal scholars, Professor Charles C. Jalloh, for a seat on the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Widely regarded as one of the brightest legal minds to emerge from the country, Professor Jalloh’s nomination could further enhance Sierra Leone’s growing reputation on the global stage.
This is not the first time Professor Jalloh has been elected to prestigious international positions. He has consistently received strong support from Sierra Leone in his international endeavors.
“I am very grateful to Sierra Leone for its support. I am currently serving at the UN International Law Commission, where I have been elected twice. In my second election, I received the highest vote of any African candidate,” said Professor Jalloh.
The ICJ, often referred to as the World Court, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. It settles legal disputes between states and gives advisory opinions on international legal questions. The court comprises 15 judges, with Africa currently holding three seats. Professor Jalloh said he would be honored to serve the country on such a vital international platform.
“It is an honor for the government to back my candidacy,” he stated.
Professor Jalloh emphasized his strong commitment to promoting peaceful resolutions of international disputes, aligning with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for global peace and security.
Professor Dr. Charles C. Jalloh is a Professor of International Law and holds the Richard A. Hausler Chair in Law at the University of Miami School of Law. He has served as a member of the United Nations International Law Commission (ILC) since 2017 and currently acts as the Special Rapporteur for the topic “Subsidiary Means for the Determination of Rules of International Law.” He also chairs the Working Group on Methods of Work and Procedures.
Professor Jalloh has held numerous leadership roles within the ILC, including Chairperson of the Drafting Committee for its 70th session in 2018, General Rapporteur for the 71st session in 2019, and Second Vice-Chair for the 74th session in 2022.
Now serving his second five-year term following re-election by the United Nations General Assembly in November 2021, Professor Jalloh is only the second Sierra Leonean ever elected to the ILC a testament to his remarkable contributions to international law.