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First Moroccan clerk at ICJ reflects rise in global legal representation
Adil Auraghi, a Stanford Law graduate, is set to make history as the first Moroccan to serve as a clerk at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) through its prestigious Judicial Fellowship Program. Beginning in September, Auraghi will work under Judge Leonardo Nemer Caldeira Brant of Brazil, contributing to the court’s pivotal legal research and decision-making processes.
A trailblazing journey
Auraghi’s achievements mark a significant moment for Morocco and broader African representation in international law. Born in Belgium, Auraghi faced systemic discrimination during high school, which led him to pursue homeschooling. Undeterred by these challenges, he graduated with High Honors from the Université Catholique de Louvain in 2021.
He gained professional experience as a lawyer at the Brussels Bar while concurrently serving as a teaching and research assistant at Université Saint-Louis Bruxelles. This academic and professional foundation earned Auraghi the Belgian American Educational Foundation (BAEF) scholarship, allowing him to pursue a Master of Law at Stanford University, specializing in Environmental Law and Human Rights.
His appointment at the ICJ, located in The Hague, Netherlands, underscores his exceptional qualifications, including academic excellence, multilingual fluency, and a commitment to global legal justice.
The ICJ and Morocco’s growing influence
The ICJ, also known as the “World Court,” is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. Comprising 15 judges elected for nine-year terms, the court handles disputes between states and provides advisory opinions on international legal questions. Each year, only 15 candidates worldwide are selected for its highly competitive Judicial Fellowship Program, making Auraghi’s selection an extraordinary milestone.
Auraghi highlights the importance of African and Global South representation in international justice. “For too long, our countries have been subjects of international policy with limited participation in shaping it,” he said. He sees Morocco’s political stability, economic strength, and diplomatic influence as key assets for advancing peace and sovereignty in the region.
Bridging gaps in diversity and education
Auraghi’s appointment also sheds light on systemic challenges faced by students of African origin in Belgium. He cited reports from UNHRC and UNIA that highlight segregation and a lack of diversity in Belgian education and legal professions. Despite these barriers, Auraghi’s journey offers inspiration for young Moroccans aspiring to careers in international law.
He advises future legal professionals to adopt a multidisciplinary approach by studying law alongside history, geopolitics, and economics. He also emphasizes the importance of mastering French, English, and Arabic, which he considers critical assets for navigating international law.
A symbol of progress
Auraghi’s historic role at the ICJ signifies a broader shift in Morocco’s international legal representation. His story speaks to the potential of Morocco’s nearly 5 million expatriates, whose achievements continue to elevate the nation’s global stature. As Auraghi steps into this pivotal position, he carries the hopes of young Moroccans and the broader Global South, striving to foster equality and justice on the world stage.
