ECOWAS Court requires proof of human rights violations for admissibility - Justice Asante

Justice Edward Amoako Asante, President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, spoke about accessing the Court. He addressed a public lecture at UPSA Law School. The theme was building a community court for ECOWAS citizens.

Justice Asante outlined three key conditions for case admission. First, applicants must show evidence that their human rights were violated by a member state. Second, they must identify themselves clearly; anonymity is not allowed. Third, the case cannot be pending in another international court.

He emphasized that meeting these conditions makes access to the ECOWAS Court easy for everyone. This includes individuals, groups, NGOs, and civil society organizations.

Justice Asante also clarified an important point about local remedies. The ECOWAS Court’s protocol does not require exhausting local remedies before filing a case. This supports the Court's mission to provide liberal access for victims of human rights violations.

He explained that victims are not required to go through domestic courts first. This is especially true if those remedies are ineffective or delayed. Lastly, he noted that the ECOWAS Court is not an appellate court over national courts. It should not be seen as a backup option after failed domestic attempts.