DFA Hosts The Hague Academy of International Law Secretary-General’s Lecture on World Courts

Professor Thouvenin’s lecture follows the conclusion of an intensive training course on Public and Private international law organized by The Hague Academy of International Law, in partnership with the Supreme Court, Philippine Judicial Academy (PHILJA) and the DFA. (DFA-OPD photo by Royce Vann Paul Pantua)

PASAY 28 February 2024 – The Department of Foreign Affairs, through the Office of Treaties and Legal Affairs, the Office of United Nations and International Organizations and the Philippine Embassy in The Hague, organized a lecture of Professor Jean-Marc

Thouvenin, Secretary General of The Hague Academy of International Law (THAIL), entitled “What can we expect from International Courts and Tribunals in a world of sovereign States?” held at the Bulwagang Apolinario Mabini. 

Professor Thouvenin’s lecture delved on the history of international courts and tribunals, the evolution of their jurisdictions, and their crucial role in resolving conflicts and in providing advisory opinions on legal questions while striking a balance in recognizing the sovereignty of states. Professor Thouvenin also stated that decisions and advisory opinions of the world courts contribute to the development of national laws and the rendering of local court decisions. 

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo remarked that the event is “an expression of the Philippines’ support for THAIL”, and is a clear demonstration of the Department’s resolve to “fulfill our duty to advance a robust and credible international legal regime that promotes and guards the flourishing of just, equitable, and prosperous societies.” END

Various offices from the DFA and members of the diplomatic corps participated in the lecture of Professor Thouvenin. (DFA-OPD photo by Royce Vann Paul Pantua)