ECOWAS Court has launched a five-year plan aimed at expanding access to justice and strengthening rule of law.
The ECOWAS Court of Justice has unveiled a five-year strategic plan aimed at strengthening the rule of law, expanding access to justice, and deepening regional integration across West Africa.
The plan, covering 2026 to 2030, was launched in Abuja, where the leadership of the court outlined a vision to transform the institution into a more effective and accessible pillar of justice within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
President of the court, Ricardo Goncalves, described the strategy as a turning point for the institution, reflecting a renewed commitment to safeguarding justice and promoting stability in the region.
“This moment is not merely symbolic. It represents a clear affirmation of our collective resolve to strengthen the role of the Court as a guarantor of the rule of law and a promoter of justice,” he said.
According to him, the strategy focuses on institutional transformation, improved efficiency, and measurable impact on citizens across ECOWAS member states.
Goncalves emphasised the importance of collaboration among judges, court staff, and regional stakeholders, noting that each group has a vital role in achieving the plan’s objectives.
He urged judges to enhance the quality and consistency of judicial decisions, while also promoting a justice system that is accessible, timely, and widely respected.
The court president also highlighted the role of administrative staff in ensuring efficiency, effective case management, and technical excellence within the institution.
He further stressed the need for stronger partnerships with member states, legal practitioners, development partners, and civil society organisations to improve enforcement of court judgments and promote legal harmonisation across the region.
In her remarks, Deputy Registrar Marie Saine described the plan as a renewed commitment to justice and service, noting that it was developed through extensive consultations and institutional review.
She said the strategy is anchored on key priorities including timely and impartial justice, expanded access to legal services, strengthened human rights protection, improved transparency, and enhanced institutional capacity.
According to her, the roadmap provides clear direction for the court’s work over the next five years while addressing emerging legal and governance challenges in the region.
The ECOWAS Court of Justice, the judicial arm of the regional bloc, is mandated to interpret community law, protect human rights, and resolve disputes involving member states and institutions.
Officials said the new framework replaces the court’s previous plan and is designed to position it to respond more effectively to evolving legal demands while strengthening its contribution to peace, justice, and integration in West Africa.