The ECOWAS Court of Justice and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) marked a significant milestone on July 12, 2024, by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This MoU aims to enhance their collaboration in international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
The MoU, signed at the Court’s seat in Abuja, outlines a framework for cooperation through activities such as trainings, roundtables, and joint conferences.
Justice Edward Amoako Asante, President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, expressed his pleasure at this pivotal event. He emphasized the long-standing relationship between the ECOWAS Court and the ICRC and highlighted the valuable training and support the ICRC has provided to build the Court’s capacity in International Humanitarian Law. Justice Asante underscored the importance of renewing this relationship to continue developing jurisprudence in new areas of law and welcomed the ongoing cooperation.
Yann Bonzon, Head of Delegation for the ICRC, addressed the attendees, noting the historic and valuable relationship with ECOWAS. He detailed the evolution of this partnership, including the first MoU signed in 2001 and the most recent revision in 2023. Bonzon emphasized the crucial role of the ECOWAS Court in safeguarding International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and International Human Rights Law (IHRL). He expressed confidence that the initiatives born from this MoU would enhance the Court’s expertise and role in applying these laws, thus better addressing humanitarian challenges in West Africa. Accompanying Bonzon were Rafiullah Qureshi, Deputy Head of Delegation, and Juliet Kelechi Unubi, Humanitarian Affairs and Diplomacy Advisor for the ICRC.
Juliet Kelechi Unubi elaborated on the objectives of the MoU, highlighting the mutual benefits of leveraging each other’s expertise and facilitating access to expert opinions, publications, and training. She underscored the unwavering commitment to continue IHL training for ECOWAS Court judges and staff, which is crucial for strengthening their knowledge and interpretation of international human rights law. This continuous training reassures the audience of the Court’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing its expertise.
Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama, Chief Registrar of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, concluded the ceremony by expressing deep appreciation to all those who collaborated on the finalization and signing of the MoU. He commended the ICRC’s global efforts in protecting victims of armed conflict and violence and expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the MoU. Dr. Ouro-Sama extended heartfelt gratitude to the ICRC for its continuous support and invaluable contributions to the Court’s activities.
The event was attended by the Vice President of the Court, other judges, the Director of Administration and Finance, the Director of Research and Documentation, and the Deputy Chief Registrar.
