Introducing Dr Penelope J. Ridings

In November 2021, Dr Penelope Ridings was elected as one of eight representatives from the Western European and other group of countries, for a five-year term on the International Law Commission, beginning January 2023.  

Dr Ridings was nominated by New Zealand. She was co-nominated by the Governments of Australia, Canada, and Sierra Leone.

Results of the 2021 Election of the International Law Commission

This profile provides a view of Dr Ridings' approach to the ILC. It was originally prepared for her election campaign.

Dr Penelope Ridings, MNZM, is one of New Zealand’s most distinguished international lawyers.  She has extensive experience representing States and finding common ground and solutions to complex legal issues.

In her long career with New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, she has been both Chief International Legal Adviser and Ambassador, and has developed a deep understanding of the academic and diplomatic aspects of international law. 

Watch the campaign video - finding common ground and forging solutions (2:13)

"Integrity, responsibility, and fairness are the fundamental values that underpin and inform my extensive practical experience in developing, implementing and adjudicating international law."
- Dr Penelope Ridings

My approach to the ILC

The work of the International Law Commission must not only be intellectually rigorous, it must be relevant to the real-world needs of States who created it.

This means prioritising the relationship between the Commission and States and aligning its work with contemporary international issues.

More broadly, I would seek to promote greater understanding of and engagement with the work of the Commission. 

At a time of increasing tensions in the international order and challenges to the international rule of law, it is crucial to support the development of international law as the basis for moving forward to a more stable, secure and prosperous world.

My priorities

Ensure a relevant, contemporary ILC work programme

We live in an age where new technologies are advancing at a rapid pace. Successful modern international organisations must be adaptable. They need to quickly identify and respond to emerging issues. They should find practical and enduring legal solutions to contemporary challenges whether posed by the impacts of fast-paced global pandemics, or the inter-generational impacts of rising seas on small island communities.

"I will bring my diverse experience working across a range of inter-disciplinary and emerging legal issues to ensure that the work of the ILC focuses on contemporary problems and needs."

Revitalise the relationship between the ILC and States

The ILC’s impact relies on ensuring its work reflects the interests and perspectives of States.

"I offer the ability to understand and reconcile a diverse range of State perspectives. I have extensive experience in representing States and finding common ground and solutions to complex legal issues. I will prioritise the relationship between the ILC and States to ensure the ILC’s work incorporates and leverages these diverse viewpoints."

Promote wider understanding of and engagement with the ILC

The ILC’s work is too important to be the sole preserve of academics and experts. Its contributions to international law must be accessible to States, to civil society, and to the people it ultimately serves.

"As a member of the ILC, I would bring my skills as a leader and communicator to promote greater understanding of and engagement with the ILC’s work. I would advocate for making it more widely accessible and user-friendly, to achieve broad understanding of the significance of the ILC’s work and the value of international law."