The Honourable Chief Justice during a panel discussion
The Honourable Chief Justice of the Republic of Malawi, His Lordship Rizine Robert Mzikamanda, SC, joined global leaders at the 26th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World (ICCJW) in Lucknow, India. The annual gathering, held from 19th November to 24th November 2025, was organised by the City Montessori School (CMS), whose students presented to the World Judiciary petitions on behalf of their fellow children worldwide to safeguard their future and protect their rights. The Conference brought together heads of judiciaries, heads of state and governments, and civil society to address some of humanity's most pressing challenges, ranging from rising global conflicts and inequitable wealth distribution to accelerating climate change and the complex impacts of technological advancement.
This year’s Conference centred on the theme “A New Look at the United Nations & its Charter: Global Governance for a Sustainable Future in a Fractured World.” Grounded in the principles of Article 51 of the Indian Constitution, the discussions emphasised the need for stronger international law, reformed global governance, and renewed commitment to peace and cooperation in the interest of children and future generations.
Participants reflected on the limitations of current multilateral institutions, particularly as the United Nations approaches its 80th anniversary in 2025. With many questions about whether the UN can still effectively meet contemporary global challenges, the Conference explored both reform of the UN Charter and innovative alternatives such as “smart coalitions” of nations willing to collaborate on shared priorities, much like existing regional unions.
The Honourable Chief Justice Mzikamanda, SC, contributed to these critical deliberations through a talk on issues surrounding the idea of establishing an international court dedicated to combating grand corruption. He also participated in a plenary panel discussion titled “Reimagining Global Governance: UN Charter Reform versus Smart Coalition Alternatives.” The panel examined whether institutional reform or institutional innovation offers a more practical path forward, considering the role of middle powers, the design of issue-based alliances, and the need to preserve legitimacy within a divided geopolitical environment.
The climax of the Conference was the adoption of a powerful resolution calling upon Heads of States, Governments, the United Nations, and judiciaries worldwide to reform and strengthen global governance, uphold the Rule of Law, eliminate war and terrorism, accelerate climate action, and embed peace and global citizenship education in every nation.
The International Conference of Chief Justices of the World was inaugurated in 2001, and Malawi has been participating since 2004. This year’s Conference had a representation from 52 countries.
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