The ICJ receives an award for its long-standing support of the International Association of Refugee and Migration Judges and its commitment to the rule of law, human rights and protection of refugees and migrants worldwide
The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) supported and participated in the 14th World Conference and Judges Training of the International Association of Refugee and Migration Judges (IARMJ) in Nairobi, Kenya, from 18 to 21 November 2025. The conference theme was, “Protecting the Integrity of the Refugee and Migration Systems”. The delegates were welcomed by Kenya’s Chief Justice, Martha Koome, and the country’s President, Dr William Samoei Ruto, delivered the keynote address. Several strong themes emerged from the conference deliberations, including judicial independence; the courts’ role; climate change; and the use of artificial intelligence in refugee status determination processes.
The ICJ was honoured to receive an award recognizing the organization’s commitment to the rule of law, human rights and the protection of refugees and migrants worldwide, as well as its long-standing support of and partnership with the IARMJ. Kenyan Supreme Court Judge Isaac Lenaola presented the award.
The ICJ Africa Director, Kaajal Ramjathan-Keogh, delivered a presentation on adjudicating asylum claims based on sexual orientation, gender identity, expression or sex characteristics (SOGIE-SC) highlighting concern that consensual same-sex sexual conduct is criminalized in 32 of the 54 African UN Member States. ICJ Legal Advisor, Wilson Macharia, presented on the situation of refugees with disabilities – with particular focus on those living in refugee camps in Kenya. His presentation recommended the provision of reasonable and procedural accommodation to persons with disabilities in line with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, as well as the development of dedicated, disability-inclusive guidelines for refugees and asylum seekers with disabilities.
The IARMJ conference communiqué reiterates its commitment to promoting a shared and consistent understanding and application of international law, standards, and best practices among judges and judiciaries worldwide concerning refugee protection, complementary protection, statelessness, and human rights–based migration governance.
Additional materials
Refugee Status Claims Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity – A Practitioners’ Guide
