Global legal experts deliberate on international justice, human rights, climate challenges and the role of the ICJ in maintaining global peace

 

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, NOVEMBER 14, 2026

Emphasising the growing importance of international law in resolving disputes, safeguarding human rights and addressing emerging global challenges, the School of Law, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Deemed to be University, organised an International Law Conference on ‘Contribution of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to World Peace’ on Saturday. The conference brought together distinguished members of the world’s highest judicial body to deliberate on the role of international justice in fostering peaceful relations among nations and strengthening the global legal order.

The conference was graced by ICJ President Judge Yuji Iwasawa, along with Judges Leonardo Nemer Caldeira Brant and Bogdan-Lucian Aurescu. Among the other distinguished dignitaries present were KIIT, KISS and KIMS Founder Prof. Achyuta Samanta; KIIT-DU Chancellor Ashok Kumar Parija; Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh; Professor Emeritus Prof. (Dr.) N. L. Mitra; Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Raju K. D.; and several other eminent personalities.

Speaking on the conference theme, ICJ President Judge Iwasawa underscored that the fundamental principle guiding the International Court of Justice’s contribution to world peace is the peaceful settlement of disputes between states through international law rather than the use of force. Established under the UN Charter, the ICJ provides an independent and impartial forum for resolving legal disputes through binding judgments and clarifying international law through advisory opinions. By upholding justice, encouraging dialogue and strengthening respect for international legal obligations, the Court plays a significant role in promoting peaceful and harmonious relations among nations. He further observed that while the Court determines the law, the ultimate responsibility for respecting and implementing its decisions rests with the states concerned.

Addressing the emerging dimensions of international law, Judge Leonardo Nemer Caldeira Brant shed light on the evolving frontiers of human rights, environmental protection and global responsibility. He highlighted how international law is undergoing a significant transformation, moving beyond its traditional role of ensuring peaceful coexistence among states towards fostering multilateral cooperation, protecting human rights, preserving the environment and promoting collective global responsibility. In this changing international landscape, the International Court of Justice is increasingly emerging as a vital institution and a strong line of defence for the international legal order. Through its jurisprudence, the Court addresses complex and sensitive global challenges, protects shared interests of the international community and reinforces the fundamental principles of the rule of law.

Judge Bogdan-Lucian Aurescu drew attention to the serious challenges arising from rising sea levels and their implications for vulnerable nations and coastal communities. He pointed out that India, given its extensive coastline, is particularly vulnerable to the consequences of rising sea levels, which threaten coastal cities, island territories, livelihoods and the lives of millions of people. Major cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Visakhapatnam face increasing risks of coastal flooding, erosion and displacement, while the Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands are confronted with significant environmental challenges. Referring to the growing importance of international legal frameworks, he noted that the International Law Commission and the International Court of Justice have emphasised the need to protect maritime boundaries, preserve statehood and safeguard the human rights of affected populations. For India, he stressed, international cooperation, climate justice and effective legal protection are crucial to confronting this increasingly serious existential threat.

Earlier, KIIT-DU Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh delivered the welcome address, setting the context for the deliberations and highlighting the significance of the conference. This was followed by a keynote address by Prof. (Dr.) N. L. Mitra. Chancellor Ashok Kumar Parija introduced the interactive session, which featured questions addressed to the distinguished judges and an engaging interaction with students. The session was chaired by Chancellor Parija and Prof. Rohini Sen, providing students with an opportunity to gain valuable insights into international jurisprudence and contemporary legal issues. Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Raju K. D. delivered the vote of thanks.

The occasion also witnessed the prize distribution ceremony of the 2nd KIIT International Moot Court Competition 2026, which carried a total cash prize of Rs 3,90,000, recognising outstanding legal research, advocacy and courtroom presentation by participating teams and individuals.

Symbiosis International (Deemed to be University), Pune, emerged as the winner of the competition, taking home the top cash prize of Rs 2,00,000. Maharashtra National Law University, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, secured the runner-up position and was awarded Rs 1,00,000. The individual and team awards also recognised exceptional performances across different categories. Niral Raghav of Chanakya National Law University, Patna, received the Best Researcher award, while Vrinda Tanwar of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi, was adjudged Best Speaker. The team representing Symbiosis International (Deemed to be University), Pune, won the Best Memorial award. Each of these three awards carried a cash prize of Rs 30,000.

The conference and moot court competition together provided an important platform for academic exchange, international legal discourse and interaction between eminent jurists and the next generation of legal professionals, reaffirming KIIT's commitment to promoting excellence in legal education and fostering a deeper understanding of international law and justice.