Ghana has nominated Dr. Sylvia Adusu as its candidate for a Judge position at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). This nomination is for the 2026–2035 term. The African Union has officially endorsed her bid. Dr. Adusu will be considered for election on June 18, 2026. This will happen during the 36th Meeting of States Parties. This meeting is part of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Dr. Adusu retired this year as Chief State Attorney. She also led the International Division of Ghana’s Attorney-General’s Department. Her career spans over 30 years in international law. She has considerable experience in diplomacy and legal practice. She played a vital part in Ghana’s international legal engagements. Dr. Adusu is respected for her knowledge of maritime law. She also excels in resolving international disputes. Her work includes negotiating treaties. Her nomination recognizes her deep public service. It also highlights her contributions to international law.
Her past work includesGhana’s maritime boundary delimitation case. This was a significant dispute before ITLOS. It involved Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. The case concerned maritime boundaries in the Atlantic Ocean. It drew global attention for its impact on ocean rules. It also affected resource management and regional peace. Dr. Adusu was a key member of Ghana’s legal team. She helped defend Ghana’s maritime rights. The 2017 ruling largely supported Ghana's claims. This was seen as a major win for international law. It showed the power of legal means to solve disagreements.
This case is often cited. It serves as an example of how African nations can handle international legal matters peacefully. Beyond this case, Dr. Adusu advised on many international law issues. She focused on sovereign rights and treaties. She also worked on multilateral cooperation. Her broad experience makes her a leading African expert. She is an authority on maritime and international legal matters. Her potential election would be historic. She could become the first African woman judge at ITLOS. The Tribunal was established in 1996.
Such an achievement would be a big step. It would be for Ghana and the entire African continent. It would also matter to the global legal community. Her presence could help bring African viewpoints. These perspectives would shape how international maritime law is interpreted. This is important now. Ocean governance and environmental protection are growing concerns. So are sustainable resource use and maritime security. The Ghanaian government believes Dr. Adusu has the right qualities. These include judicial temperament and technical skill. Her international experience is also valued.