The HagueOnce again, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has chosen the path of least resistance and allowed International Law to descend into academic exercise instead of practical guidance.
The World Court has decided that it does now have the power to order a cease-fire in the ongoing war between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda – although both parties had agreed to abide by the Court’s decision.
In a 14 to 2 decision, the Court concluded that it lacked the "jurisdiction necessary to indicate" those steps, which were requested by the Congo government, when the case was submitted in May.
At that time, the Congo called for provisional measures "pending the Court's decision
In a 14 to 2 decision, the Court concluded that it lacked the "jurisdiction necessary to indicate" those steps, which were requested by the Congo government, when the case was submitted in May.
At that time, the Congo called for provisional measures "pending the Court's decision
on the merits to prevent irreparable harm being caused to its lawful rights and to those of its population by reason of the occupation of part of its territory by Rwandan forces."
In explaining its decision, the ICJ emphasized its deep concern over the "deplorable human tragedy, loss of life, and enormous suffering" in the East of the Congo resulting from the continued fighting there.
At the same time, the Court pointed out that it "does not automatically have jurisdiction over legal disputes between States" and it cannot indicate
In explaining its decision, the ICJ emphasized its deep concern over the "deplorable human tragedy, loss of life, and enormous suffering" in the East of the Congo resulting from the continued fighting there.
At the same time, the Court pointed out that it "does not automatically have jurisdiction over legal disputes between States" and it cannot indicate