Justice Edward Asante, the former president of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, has been elected to the prestigious Advisory Committee of the UN Human Rights Council.

This was announced in a statement on Thursday.

The advisory committee is an 18-member think-tank of the United Nations agency. Membership on the advisory committee requires a candidate with an understanding of international human rights mechanisms, a proven track record of impartial decision-making, and the diplomatic acumen to navigate complex terrains.

“Justice Asante, who is currently a judge of Ghana’s Court of Appeal and the ECOWAS Court, will serve for an initial three-year term, which is renewable once,” the statement said.

Mr Asante, nominated by Ghana, was one of the two judges from Africa elected during the 60th session of the council to fill the seven vacancies in the Advisory Committee.

The council’s advisory committee members, who serve in their personal capacities, are usually nominated by UN member states after consultations with national human rights institutions and civil society organisations.

The committee comprises five members from African and Asian-Pacific countries; three members each from Latin American and Caribbean countries; and two members from Western European and other countries.

“Justice Asante is a distinguished jurist and seasoned international legal expert, whose extensive experience in human rights law, international humanitarian law, and judicial administration makes him an outstanding candidate for this prestigious role.

“With over three decades of legal practice and judicial service, including as president and judge of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Justice Asante has demonstrated deep commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights across West Africa and beyond,” Ghana had stated in the nomination letter.

(NAN)