With many thanks to our Editorial Board, we are pleased to bring you this edition of The Judges’ Journal.
When I tell my colleagues that I work at the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, or that I once worked for the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, routinely I am asked how I got into this line of work. It is generally an area of fascination among my professional peers and acquaintances. This edition of The Judges’ Journal introduces you to the various courts and processes related to the proceedings in those tribunals, courts, and arbitration venues. It opens the door to the start of the theme for 2016–17, which is Global Justice at Home and Abroad.
This edition features articles on the International Court of Justice, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, and the work of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, now transitioning to the Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals, combining functions with the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Also highlighted is the work of P.R.I.M.E. Finance, which is located in The Hague and collaborates with the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Also discussed is the European Court of Human Rights, which has increasing relevance in today’s global environment. There is also information about the challenging work of ensuring that the work of these international courts ties to the rule of law, and the challenges faced in enforcing standards of conduct for judges and lawyers practicing in these courts.
The Judicial Division, along with co-sponsors the Section of International Law, Senior Lawyers Division, and Tort, Trial and Insurance Practice Section, plans a continuing legal education program that will provide even greater insight and hopefully assist in demystifying the important work of the courts located primarily in The Hague, Netherlands.
Finally, I want to thank Judge Michele Hotten for her tireless efforts on The Judges’ Journal Editorial Board, as this will be one of her last contributions to the work of the publication. Her dedication to ensuring a quality publication for all of our members over the last several years warrants all of our appreciation. We wish you well as you ascend to your new position, Judge Hotten, and salute you for a job well done.