Member International Law Commission
Intervention at ILC on Settlement of Disputes to which International Organisations are Party, 29 April 2023
Meeting with PIF Delegates in Geneva on Sea-Level Rise with the Co-Chairs of the International Law Commission topic: 27 July 2023.
My Experience
- Extensive experience representing States and finding common ground and solutions to complex legal issues.
- A long and varied career with New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as both Chief International Legal Adviser and Ambassador.
- A deep understanding of the academic and diplomatic aspects of international law.
Presentation UN World Conference on Indigenous Peoples, Interactive Hearing, June 2014
My Values
- Integrity, fairness and the concept of kaitiakitanga, which is about guardianship and care of people and the environment brought to us through New Zealand’s indigenous Māori people.
- Strong support for multilateralism and the importance of rules to guide the relations between States.
- Fundamental belief in cooperation, collaboration and understanding diverse perspectives.
“I am committed to the continued relevance of the International Law Commission to all States.”
Participating in the SPC Skipjack Tuna Tagging Programme in 1990 in the Solomon Islands
My Priorities
Chairing a small working group, Ad Hoc Informal Working Group on Marine Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction” January 2015. Photo: Daniel Birchall
- Ensure a relevant, contemporary work programme: Successful modern international organisations must be able to respond to emerging issues and to find practical and enduring legal solutions to contemporary challenges.
- Revitalise the relationship between the ILC and States: The work of the International Law Commission must not only be intellectually rigorous, it must be relevant to the diverse real-world needs and perspective of States who created it.
- To promote greater understanding of, and engagement with, the ILC’s work.