Accra: Justice Dennis Dominic Adjei, known as Sir Dennis, a Supreme Court Judge, has unveiled his latest book titled “International Human and People’s Rights: Law and Practice.” This extensive 968-page work delves into both international and regional human rights frameworks, detailing their application and significance.

According to Ghana News Agency, the book aims to simplify the understanding of international human rights laws for legal professionals, court officials, judges, and law students. It emphasizes the importance of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, among others. Topics covered include various rights types, the European Convention on Human Rights, the inter-American Commission on Human Rights, the International Criminal Court, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

The book also highlights the African Court’s role in upholding human rights standards among member states. Justice Adjei noted that the African Court was created to ensure that member states adhere to the principles outlined in the African Charter. He described the book as a valuable resource that would enhance the administration of justice by harmonizing national legal systems with continental human rights standards.

Justice Adjei emphasized the necessity of exhausting all legal remedies at the local level before cases can be brought to the African Court, as specified in the court’s protocols. He cautioned against relying on ‘common sense’ for interpreting human rights treaties in domestic courts, urging judges to apply the law accurately.

Furthermore, Justice Adjei advised Ghanaian authorities to consider making formal reservations to specific treaty provisions during ratification if they conflict with national customs, such as the adoption of surnames. He shared that his inspiration for writing the book stemmed from a commitment to the rule of law, aligning national laws with international human rights commitments, and his experiences on the African Court.

The book seeks to promote legal reforms and guide judges to adhere to laws rather than personal beliefs. The event also featured the reintroduction of three revised editions authored by Justice Adjei, including a collaborative work on Alternate Dispute Resolution with Justice (Rtd) Barbara Ackah-Yensu.

Justice Adjei, a Supreme Court Judge in Ghana and a judge for the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, has authored several other legal books on various aspects of Ghanaian law. The book launch, led by Professor Mike Oquaye, former Speaker of Parliament, was attended by legal professionals, traditional leaders, clergy, and other dignitaries.