RESEARCH AND DOCUMENTATION DEPARTMENT  

The Research and Documentation Department serves as the legal department of the Court and houses the Court’s library. It has two divisions: The Research and Legal Affairs Division and the Library and Documentation Division.

Legal Services and Research Division  

The Legal Services and Research Division is instrumental in supporting the Court’s judicial functions by providing in-depth legal research. This Division’s work is critical to the development of jurisprudence, the consistency of legal standards and the overall effectiveness of the Court in fulfilling its mandate. Its core functions include legal research and analysis, drafting and reviewing legal documents, legal advisory support, policy research and development and knowledge management. The Legal Services and Research Division is fundamental to the ECOWAS Court by supporting the Court’s need for well-researched, accurate and accessible legal information. By facilitating thorough research and providing legal advisory support, the Division strengthens the Court’s commitment to delivering fair, informed and consistent justice. Through its work, the Division contributes to the Court’s broader mission of upholding human rights, promoting regional integration and advancing legal harmonisation within West Africa.

Library and Documentation Division  

The Library and Documentation Division of the ECOWAS Court of Justice serves as a critical resource hub, providing access to legal materials, case documentation and scholarly resources that support the Court’s judicial and administrative functions. This Division ensures that judges, legal staff and researchers have the information needed to make informed decisions and contribute to the advancement of regional jurisprudence. Its key functions include resource acquisition and management, legal research support, cataloguing and indexing, documentation and archiving, digital library and database management, user assistance and training. The Library and Documentation Division is vital to the ECOWAS Court of Justice, providing reliable access to essential legal resources and fostering a knowledge-driven environment within the Court. Through resource management, archiving and research support, the Division strengthens the Court’s ability to deliver high-quality, well-researched decisions. Its contributions ensure that the Court remains informed, transparent and efficient in its mission to uphold justice, protect human rights and support regional integration across West Africa.