Justice Adjei launches book on peoples’ rights
The former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Rev. Aaron Mike Oquaye, has lauded Justice Dennis Dominic Adjei, a Justice of the Supreme Court of Ghana, for his remarkable scholarly contributions to legal education and jurisprudence.
Chairing Justice Adjei’s book launch in Accra last Friday, Prof. Oquaye described the author as a “distinguished scholar and luminary” whose works had enriched both academia and the judiciary.
“He continues to revise his texts to maintain their accuracy and usefulness. That discipline is the hallmark of a serious scholar,” Prof. Oquaye said.
He commended Justice Adjei for his diligence in keeping his writings current and relevant in a rapidly evolving legal environment.
Book
Titled, “International Human and Peoples’ Rights: Law and Practice”, the book is the latest to be launched by Justice Adjei.
The book explores the global framework of international human rights law and its relevance to Africa’s judicial practice.
With 20 chapters, the book examines major human rights systems, landmark cases, and evolving legal principles — from civil and political rights to economic, social, and collective dimensions.
The launch, which took place at the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, also marked the reintroduction of three revised editions of Justice Adjei’s earlier works.
They are: “Modern Approach to the Law of Interpretation in Ghana”, “Alternative Dispute Resolution: A Ghanaian Perspective (co-authored with Justice Barbara Ackah-Yensu)”, and “Essential Laws on Credit Creation and Administration of Security Interests: A Ghanaian Perspective”.
The 20-chapter book was reviewed by media personality and private legal practitioner, Samson Lardy Anyenini.
Motivation
Justice Adjei, who also serves as a Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, said his motivation for writing the book stemmed from the need to bridge the gap between theory and practice in international human rights jurisprudence.
“Wherever I travel — whether to a library or a bookshop — I find literature on the African, Inter-American, and European human rights courts, as well as on the ICC and ICJ, but never in a single volume. This book brings them all together,” he said.
He further explained that the book simplified complex legal concepts for a broader readership.
“Everybody must get a copy. The language is simple and engaging.
It will help not only lawyers, but also institutional leaders and scholars to understand how international courts operate,” he said.
Justice Adjei emphasised the need for countries to honour their treaty obligations once they ratify international conventions, and distinguish between “human rights,” which belong to individuals, and “peoples’ rights,” which are collective.
The event, attended by judges, academics, lawyers, and students, celebrated Justice Adjei’s enduring contribution to Ghana’s legal education and his role in shaping global human rights discourse.
