### Ascension of African lawyers at the ICC: a symbolic and strategic step
The entry of the two African lawyers, Sanji Monageng and Evelyn Ankumah, within the group of special advisers of the International Criminal Court (ICC) represents much more than a simple appointment. It is part of a larger dynamic reaffirmation of the voice and the role of African women within international institutions, while emphasizing the geopolitical complexities that influence their work. This event deserves an in -depth analysis of the practical, political and philosophical implications that it generates.
#### Inventory: challenges and opportunities
** An African voice in a global arena **
With this appointment, the number of African advisers within the ICC goes to four, which is significant in a context where Africa is often underrepresented in international legal discussions. The addition of Monageng and Ankumah, with respected profiles, somewhat dissipates this impression and highlights the competent experts from the continent. Judge Monageng, who is responsible for her experience at the ICC for nine years, and Ankumah, an inflexible activist for international justice, bring vital and nuanced perspectives to complex problems such as international criminal law and the fight against impunity.
However, their arrival coincides with a period of increased geopolitical tensions. Since January 2025, prosecutor Karim Khan has faced sanctions imposed by the United States due to the issue of an arrest warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu, awakening criticism of the ICC independence and his interactions with dominant powers. These issues highlight the need for a well -calculated approach to navigate the international legal landscape, reflecting a broader reality where legal decisions are often influenced by political considerations.
#### A reflection on social and ethical impacts
** The role of women in international justice **
The presence of these two lawyers also opens up a debate on the place of women in the spheres of power in international judicial bodies. According to a recent UN study, the representation of women in international judicial decisions is still too low. Women have an average of only 20% of high -level positions in international legal institutions, a figure that remains alarming in the face of contemporary challenges.
Their nominations could positively influence other African women and around the world, by proving them that with sustained efforts and specific expertise, it is possible to cross barriers that have long limited their influence.
### Revision of the attack crime: a necessary turning point?
One of the critical issues for the ICC will be the review of the attack crime, the contours of which must be redefined to allow effective proceedings. Ankumah, a pioneer in the argument for a change, underlines a pressing need: that of rethinking mechanisms which currently limit legal action. The meeting of July 2025, summoned by the Assembly of Member States to approach this issue, could be a potential turning point to expand the spectrum of legal proceedings.
The implications of such a revision go far beyond the legal framework; They also question the moral responsibility of the Member States in the face of acts of systemic violence. The world leaders must look at this subject, especially at a time when regional conflicts arouse ethical debates around collective responsibility.
#### Conclusion: a vision for the future
The appointment of Sanji Monageng and Evelyn Ankumah to the ICC does not only represent a step towards more diversity, but this raises fundamental questions on the current structure of international criminal law and the issues of global justice. It is an invitation to rethink our approach to institutions, by further integrating under-represented voices and adapting laws to the realities of the 21st century.
As journalists and observers of the news, we must remain attentive to these developments, and bring forward questions that resonate beyond the simple facts. Understanding the universe surrounding the ICC and the implications of these appointments is fundamental to understanding the future trajectories of international justice. This appointment could well mark the beginning of a new era for justice, where African voices would truly influence the course of world events.