Inside Geneva: Summer Profiles - A Conversation with International Lawyer Dapo Akande

Host: Imogen Foulkes
Guest: Dapo Akande, Professor of International Law at the University of Oxford, Member of the International Law Commission of the United Nations, and Practicing Barrister in London
Release Date: July 22, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of Inside Geneva, hosted by Imogen Foulkes, listeners are introduced to Dapo Akande, a distinguished international lawyer and a candidate for a judgeship at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This in-depth conversation delves into Akande's journey, his significant contributions to international law, and his perspectives on the current state and future of global legal frameworks.

Early Life and Motivation

Dapo Akande begins by reflecting on his childhood and the roots of his passion for law. Born and raised in Ibadan, Nigeria, Akande shares, “I was very argumentative as a child, and everyone used to say, you should be a lawyer” (00:21). Growing up in a family of academics, with both parents immersed in scholarly pursuits, Akande developed a keen interest in international affairs from an early age. The constant exposure to the BBC World Service in his household further fueled his fascination with global events and underscored his desire to pursue a career that intersected law and international relations.

Academic and Professional Journey

Akande pursued his initial law degree in Nigeria before relocating to the United Kingdom for graduate studies. Initially planning a short-term stay, he found himself establishing a long-term career in the UK, driven by his deepening interest in international law. He explains, “International law is increasingly regarded as relevant, and actions are judged more nowadays by reference to international law than was the case before” (10:05).

Career Highlights and Notable Cases

One of the pivotal moments in Akande's career was his involvement in the Nigeria vs. Cameroon dispute over the Bakasi Peninsula. Early in his career, Akande worked as an assistant to the first woman judge at the ICJ, who was representing Nigeria in this prolonged boundary conflict. The dispute, primarily over rich oil reserves, threatened to escalate into armed conflict. Akande recounts, “Nigeria ... agreed to cede the territory in a phased process, avoiding war” (08:59). The ICJ's ruling in favor of Cameroon in 2002 not only resolved a significant territorial disagreement but also prevented potential loss of life, highlighting the crucial role of international legal mechanisms in maintaining peace.

Perspectives on International Law

Akande offers a nuanced view of international law, emphasizing its dual role in fostering predictability and providing avenues for justice. “It’s a framework within which states, and by extension people in states, could live together on the basis of predictability, stability, and justice” (04:04). He acknowledges the frequent disregard for international law in contemporary affairs but counters this by noting the increasing global emphasis on legal standards. “International law is increasingly regarded as relevant, and actions are judged more nowadays by reference to international law” (10:05).

Challenges and Double Standards

A significant portion of the discussion addresses the challenges posed by major powers, particularly the United States, in upholding international legal norms. Akande critiques the inconsistent application of international law, often referred to as "double standards." He observes, “The failure to comply has consequences... it gives an excuse for others in other cases also to not comply” (21:10). This hypocrisy undermines the credibility and effectiveness of international legal institutions, making it difficult to achieve universal compliance.

Role of International Law in Sustainable Peace

Akande underscores the importance of adhering to the laws of armed conflict, not only for moral reasons but also for ensuring sustainable peace. He aligns with sentiments expressed by Mariana Spoliaric of the International Committee of the Red Cross, advocating that “fighting within the rules... will make the peace more sustainable” (22:21). This adherence not only preserves human dignity during conflicts but also lays the groundwork for lasting reconciliation and reconstruction post-conflict.

Candidacy for the International Court of Justice

As a prospective judge of the ICJ, Akande articulates his motivation rooted in a lifelong commitment to strengthening international legal frameworks. “It’s about helping to develop and sustain that framework of rules that provide for predictability, stability, and justice” (24:08). He views his potential role at the ICJ as an extension of his efforts to facilitate peaceful dispute resolutions and enhance the clarity and application of international law.

Conclusion

Imogen Foulkes concludes the episode by highlighting the vital insights shared by Dapo Akande, emphasizing the indispensable role of international law in today's tumultuous global landscape. Listeners are encouraged to follow upcoming episodes featuring other prominent figures in the field of international aid and justice.

Notable Quotes:

• Dapo Akande (00:21): "I was very argumentative as a child, and everyone used to say, you should be a lawyer."

• Dapo Akande (04:04): "It’s a framework within which states... could live together on the basis of predictability, stability, and justice."

• Dapo Akande (08:59): "Nigeria... agreed to cede the territory in a phased process, avoiding war."

• Dapo Akande (10:05): "International law is increasingly regarded as relevant, and actions are judged more nowadays by reference to international law than was the case before."

• Dapo Akande (21:10): "The failure to comply has consequences... it gives an excuse for others in other cases also to not comply."

• Dapo Akande (22:21): "Fighting within the rules... will make the peace more sustainable."

• Dapo Akande (24:08): "It’s about helping to develop and sustain that framework of rules that provide for predictability, stability, and justice."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the conversation between Imogen Foulkes and Dapo Akande, providing a clear and engaging overview for those who have yet to listen to the episode.