Ambassador for International Law Rena Lee is among 10 candidates vying for five vacancies on the 15-member tribunal for the 2027 to 2036 term. The diplomatic push reflects Singapore's foreign policy view that global legal stability is vital for the survival of small states. Singapore has previously utilized the court to resolve sensitive matters peacefully, including a 2008 territorial ruling that awarded it sovereignty over Pedra Branca.
Key points
Election to the bench would make Rena Lee the first female judge from Southeast Asia to s…: Election to the bench would make Rena Lee the first female judge from Southeast Asia to serve on the tribunal.
Minister Edwin Tong noted to the United Nations that adherence to international law remai…: Minister Edwin Tong noted to the United Nations that adherence to international law remains vital for the survival of small nations.
The candidacy highlights Singapore's established foreign policy priority of supporting mu…: The candidacy highlights Singapore's established foreign policy priority of supporting multilateralism and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.
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Experts say the decision to enter the race reflects Singapore’s record of championing the rule of law through multilateralism, the peaceful settlement of international disputes, and the observance of international law.
SINGAPORE: When the United Nations convenes in New York on Tuesday (Nov 3) to elect judges to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Singapore will be watching keenly with unprecedented interest.
For the first time since joining the UN as a newly independent nation in 1965, the Republic has fielded a candidate – Ms Rena Lee, 57 – for the world’s highest judicial bench.
The bid is seen as far more than an individual milestone for Singapore. Securing a seat on the 15-judge ICJ, also known as the World Court, goes to the core of its foreign policy and security as a small island nation.
“For small states, governance by international law is not a matter of choice but one of survival,” Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs Edwin Tong said at the UN headquarters in New York on Oct 29, a few days ahead of…
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