The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is set to hold its 2026 International Conference in Dakar, Senegal, from September 21 to 25.

The five-day event will bring together judicial and government officials, legal practitioners, academics and other stakeholders to discuss the future of regional justice, human rights protection and integration in West Africa.

The conference is themed, “ECOWAS Court of Justice at the Crossroads: Justice, Innovation, Human Rights Protection and the Future of Regional Integration in West Africa.”

Participants are expected to include heads of regional and national courts, representatives of member states, civil society organisations, development partners, international organisations and the media.

According to the organisers, the conference will provide an opportunity to address emerging challenges facing the court and explore ways of improving justice delivery and regional cooperation.

Seven thematic sessions have been scheduled for the conference, covering human rights jurisprudence, compliance with court decisions, artificial intelligence and data protection, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution, the proposed appellate chamber, environmental justice, and refugee protection and forced displacement.

Discussions will also examine ways to improve compliance with ECOWAS Court judgments, strengthen human rights protection and use digital technology to improve regional justice.

Other issues expected to feature include environmental degradation, forced displacement and commercial disputes.

The conference will feature plenary sessions, expert panels, roundtable discussions and an exhibition designed to promote knowledge-sharing and partnerships among participants.

The organisers said the event would end with actionable recommendations and an Outcome Document setting out strategic priorities for the future of the ECOWAS Court and regional integration.

Participants will also consider measures to make the regional justice system more accessible, innovative and responsive to human rights concerns across West Africa.