South Africa stepped onto the global stage with the induction of Professor Dire Tladi as a judge for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on 6 February 2024. This historic moment marked the first time a South African has held such a position.
Professor Tladi, renowned for his expertise in international law and global equality, brings a wealth of experience from academia, government, and diplomacy to the ICJ. His appointment highlights South Africa’s growing influence and recognition in international affairs.
Joining three other esteemed judges from Romania, the United States, and Mexico, Professor Tladi was selected by the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council in November 2023 for a nine-year term.
The ICJ is a principal judicial organ of the UN and is one of six principal bodies of intergovernmental organizations in hopes of settling legal disputes per international law between member states.
This achievement follows South Africa’s involvement in the case concerning the war in Palestine, where the ICJ found evidence suggesting violations of the Genocide Convention by Israel.
As South Africa continues to assert its presence internationally, this milestone serves as a reminder of the country’s valuable contributions and the importance of representation in shaping global affairs.
