The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) begins its 2026 International Conference in Dakar, Senegal, on Monday, gathering senior judges, government officials, legal experts and civil society representatives for five days of discussions on the future of regional justice.
The conference runs from 21 to 25 September under the theme “ECOWAS Court of Justice at the Crossroads: Justice, Innovation, Human Rights Protection, and the Future of Regional Integration in West Africa.” Organisers describe the gathering as coming at a critical moment for both the Court and wider efforts at West African integration.
Participants include senior judicial and government officials from ECOWAS member states, heads of ECOWAS institutions, leaders of national courts, legal practitioners, academics, civil society groups, development partners, international organisations and journalists.
Seven thematic sessions will examine human rights jurisprudence, the enforcement and compliance of court decisions, artificial intelligence and data protection, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution, a proposed appellate chamber, environmental justice, and the protection of refugees and people displaced by force.
Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening human rights safeguards, improving the enforcement of the Court’s judgments, advancing digital tools, responding to environmental and displacement crises, and developing new approaches to regional commercial disputes. The programme includes plenary sessions, expert panels, roundtables and an exhibition.
Conference organisers say the event aims to generate practical recommendations and an outcome document that will set strategic priorities for the Court and for regional integration in West Africa.
The Community Court of Justice serves as the principal judicial organ of ECOWAS. It is mandated to interpret and apply Community law, resolve disputes and address human rights violations within member states. Over the years it has contributed to upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights and supporting regional integration across West Africa.
Further details are available on the Court’s website at www.courtecowas.org.
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