The Rise in the Participation of Asia Pacific States in the Proceedings of the International Court of Justice (2010-2023)

Abstract Recent State practice shows a unprecedented rise in participation by Asia Pacific States in proceedings before the International Court of Justice. Section II provides a holistic view with consideration of these recent developments in the light of sub-regional variation regarding the ICJ in the Asia Pacific region providing four detailed tables and three maps to that effect. Section III follows on by providing a thematically ordered analytical survey of all eighteen recent contentious cases brought by, or involving, Asia Pacific States before the Court since 2010. Section IV examines a rising pattern in participation by Asia Pacific States, including China, in ICJ advisory proceedings over the last twenty-five years, culminating with their all-time record participation in the Obligations of States in Respect of Climate Change. Section V illustrates the epistemological value of the regional and sub-regional lens in complementing country-specific lenses when studying the engagement of sovereign States with the ICJ in the light of recent State practice from the Asia Pacific region. The conclusion considers the potential for, and limitations of, future engagement by Asia Pacific States with the ICJ.