The ICJ at 80: Upholding the Rule of Law in an Age of Geopolitical Fracture

In his May message, CLA President Steven Thiru reflects on the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice and its role in upholding the rule of law amid geopolitical strain. 

He also considers tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and their implications for maritime security and freedom of navigation, emphasising the importance of consistent observance of international law for global stability.

CLA President-Elect Warns of the Quiet Erosion of Civic Space

At the recent Commonwealth Forum of National Human Rights Institutions High Level Dialogue, Sophie Stanbrook warned that everyday security and cyber laws are quietly narrowing civic space across the Commonwealth.

Read the more to see how these legal shifts are reshaping protest, speech and dissent.

Chagos: Self-Determination on Trial

The Chagos story is unfolding now. As Chagossians return to their homeland and their rights are challenged once again in court, Philip Rule KC, David Denniston and Lloyd de Vincenzi examine whether the UK’s latest proposals finally satisfy international law—or repeat the injustices of the past.

 Compliance Expectations, Grey-Listing Pressures and What Africa Must Do Next After the FATF Plenary

As the Financial Action Task Force shifts from technical compliance to enforcement outcomes, African states face growing pressure to prove real effectiveness in tackling financial crime. In this article, Juliet Ibekaku-Nwagwu, chair of the CLA Anti-Corruption Committee,  examines the key messages from the February 2026 FATF Plenary and their implications for Africa’s AML/CFT landscape.

Share Your Voice: Call for Articles from Commonwealth Young Lawyers

Calling all young lawyers! The Young Commonwealth Lawyers Committee is seeking articles on how emerging technologies are redefining the legal landscape for its inaugural newsletter. Download the guidelines and share your perspective with a global legal audience.

Register Now for a Hybrid Global Training Session on AI and the Rule of Law

The CLA is pleased to support a hybrid training day on ‘AI, Human Rights & The Rule of Law’ led by the Bar Human Rights Committee of England and Wales and the UNESCO Network of Experts on AI and the Rule of Law at Inner Temple on 20 June 2026. Join global legal leaders to explore the risks, opportunities and future of AI in justice systems worldwide.

Commonwealth Peace Mediation Conference 2026
Save the Date | Jaipur, Rajasthan | 31 July – 2 August 2026

At a time of growing global division, the Commonwealth Peace Mediation Conference 2026 will bring together leaders, jurists, and mediators to champion Peace Mediation as the pathway to justice, stability, and the Rule of Law. Convened under the leadership of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, the Conference will culminate in the proposed adoption of the Jaipur Declaration on Peace Mediation.

📣 Call For Papers: The Commonwealth Cyber Journal

 Cyber threats are evolving faster than ever—from AI-driven attacks to ransomware and critical infrastructure risks—and the legal and policy response must keep pace. The Commonwealth Cyber Journal invites papers on contemporary cybercrime and cybersecurity; click the link to view full guidelines and contribute.

Countdown to the Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago Biennial Law Conference 2026, 12-13 June 

 As the Caribbean legal landscape evolves, this premier gathering promises two days of bold dialogue, regional insight, and future-focused thought leadership under the theme “The Caribbean Legal Profession at 50: Embracing New Frontiers.” Secure your place alongside leading practitioners, judges, academics, and policymakers.

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