Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bensouda

The Gambia High Commissioner to the United Kingdom & Former Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court

Keynote Speaker | Legal Reformer | Champion for Global Justice

Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bensouda is one of the world’s most respected voices in international law and justice.

A pioneering leader and legal pioneer, Dr Bensouda served as the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) from 2012 to 2021, having previously held the role of Deputy Prosecutor for Prosecutions. Her election to the position by global consensus made history. She was the first African and the first woman to lead the ICC.

During her tenure at the Court, Dr Bensouda advanced international accountability for atrocity crimes, breaking new ground in the prosecution of sexual and gender-based violence, crimes against children, and the destruction of cultural heritage.

Her work elevated the profile of these often-overlooked offences within international legal frameworks, and she remains a global symbol of courage, dignity, and principled leadership.

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Prior to her work at the ICC, Dr Bensouda served as Senior Legal Advisor at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), contributing to landmark cases following the Rwandan genocide. She also held numerous senior government roles in The Gambia, including Solicitor General, Attorney General, and Minister of Justice becoming Chief Legal Advisor to the President and Cabinet.

An expert in international maritime law, Dr Bensouda is The Gambia’s first international maritime lawyer, holding a master’s degree in the field. She also contributed to key negotiations on ECOWAS treaties, the West African Parliament, and the ECOWAS Tribunal, reflecting her commitment to regional integration and rule of law.

Global Accolades

Why Work with Dr Bensouda?

Dr Bensouda combines legal expertise with diplomatic leadership, making her one of the most influential figures in global justice. She is ideal for:

  • Keynotes on justice, accountability, and peacebuilding

  • Training on international criminal law and human rights frameworks

  • Policy advisory for governments and regional institutions

  • Women’s leadership and gender justice initiatives

  • Academic lectures and public service inspiration

Now serving as The Gambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr Bensouda continues to speak powerfully on issues of peace, gender justice, international law, and African leadership.

Professional Credentials

  • Chief Prosecutor, International Criminal Court (2012–2021)

  • Deputy Prosecutor for Prosecutions, ICC (2004–2012)

  • Senior Legal Advisor, International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda

  • Former Attorney General & Minister of Justice, The Gambia

  • Gambia’s first international maritime lawyer (LLM in Maritime Law)

  • Advisor on ECOWAS treaties, Parliament, and Tribunal

  • Member, International Gender Champions Network

Key Focus Areas

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Global Justice and Accountability

Leading the ICC and prosecuting war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity
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Women in Leadership and Public Service

Breaking barriers in international diplomacy and global governance
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Gender, Conflict and the Law

Addressing sexual and gender-based violence in international legal frameworks
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Maritime Law and African Sovereignty

Insights from Africa’s first international maritime law expert
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Strengthening Rule of Law in Africa

Experience as Attorney General and contributions to ECOWAS legal integration

To Book Dr Bensouda

Dr Fatou Bensouda is available for international keynote addresses, high-level policy dialogues, academic lectures, and advisory roles. Get in touch to check availability.

 info@aider.org.uk

Based in the UK | Available for global collaborations