The Work of the International Law Commission between 1997 and 2022: A Positive Assessment

Contrary to what was predicted by some (and is sometimes still suggested), the International Law Commission’s achievements over the past quarter century have been many. To seek to divide its output into successes and failures, or to measure that output against the number of conventions concluded on its basis, is an oversimplification: all of the Commission’s work has contributed, to a greater or lesser degree, to the understanding and development of international law. In engaging with areas of considerable practical importance, the Commission has exerted significant influence on international law, served as a guardian of its systemic nature, and strengthened the rule of law in international affairs. If it remains attentive to the views of States, there is good reason to believe that this will continue in the future.