Uni of Adelaide alumnus appointed to International Court of Justice

Monday, 10 November 2014

University of Adelaide distinguished alumnus and renowned Australian international lawyer, Professor James Crawford AC SC, has been elected as a judge to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Professor Crawford is only the second Australian to be elected to the ICJ and will commence his nine-year position in 2015.

Associate Professor David Brown, Acting Dean of the University's Adelaide Law School, says: "The Adelaide Law School is delighted by this announcement. Professor Crawford's appointment is a crowning achievement and recognition of his eminence on the international law world stage."

"Professor Crawford has maintained his connection with the University since he studied here as an undergraduate. He and his family have been generous supporters of the Adelaide Law School and he has taken a keen interest in our students, particularly in the field of mooting and international law. Each year we have the James Crawford International Law Oration in his honour, and for which he frequently returns.

"The University, and Adelaide Law School, are proud to have him as a friend, supporter and inspiration for us and our students," he says.

Professor Crawford continued at the University of Adelaide as an academic after he completed his undergraduate studies, holding a personal chair from 1982.

His reputation as an international lawyer and jurist has continued to grow over the years, appearing in key cases before international tribunals and bodies including the ICJ itself, as a lawyer, rapporteur and expert witness.

Professor Crawford has held the Whewell Chair at the University of Cambridge since 1992 and was recognised by the University of Adelaide's Distinguished Alumni award in 2012. In 2013 he was made a Companion of the Order of Australia.

The International Court of Justice is the principal judicial arm of the United Nations and plays a critical role in the peaceful settlement of disputes brought to it by States, international agencies and the UN General Assembly.

Contact Details