In a region where questions of sovereignty, security, and economic development increasingly intersect with international law, Caribbean states are often required to navigate complex legal realities on the global stage. From maritime boundaries and trade relations to regional cooperation and national
security, the legal frameworks governing these issues continue to shape the Caribbean’s future.
These critical matters will take centre stage at the Eugene Dupuch Distinguished Lecture 2026, hosted by the Eugene Dupuch Law School (EDLS), one of the three law schools operating under the Council of Legal Education, the regional body responsible for legal education and professional training across the Commonwealth Caribbean.
This year’s lecture will be delivered by The Hon. Madame Justice Chantal Ononaiwu, Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice, who will present on the topic: “International Law at the Intersection of Sovereignty, Security and Economic Interests: Caribbean Challenges and Responses.”
The lecture will take place on Thursday, 19 March 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at the Compass Rose Ballroom, Margaritaville Beach Resort, Nassau, The Bahamas. Justice Ononaiwu brings extensive international legal experience to the discussion.
As a judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice, she plays a pivotal role in interpreting and shaping the application of regional and international law across the Caribbean Community. Her lecture will examine how Caribbean nations respond to evolving global pressures while safeguarding their sovereignty, advancing economic interests, and strengthening regional security frameworks.
For more than 15 years, the Eugene Dupuch Distinguished Lecture Series has provided a platform for meaningful engagement on issues shaping the legal profession and justice systems throughout the region. The series continues to bring
distinguished jurists, practitioners, and scholars to The Bahamas to contribute to thoughtful dialogue on some of the most pressing legal developments affecting the Caribbean and beyond. Acting Principal of the Eugene Dupuch Law School, Mrs. Nicole Sutherland-King, underscored the importance of this year’s discussion.
“This year’s lecture foregrounds an issue that we in the Caribbean are grappling with. How we, as Small Island Developing States, navigate an increasingly complex and rapidly changing global environment while protecting our sovereignty and pursuing sustainable economic opportunity. We are honoured to have Justice Ononaiwu deliver this year’s Distinguished Lecture which will explore the role of the rule of law in mediating these tensions. With her background in academia and expertise in both Caricom Law and International Trade Law, Justice Ononaiwu is uniquely positioned to lead the discussion. Events like these give our students an opportunity to engage critically with topical issues, ask informed questions, and leave better prepared to contribute to national and regional discussions.”
As with previous years, the Eugene Dupuch Distinguished Lecture is free and open to the public, offering legal professionals, students, and members of the wider community the opportunity to engage with this important regional conversation.
For further information, media inquiries, or interview requests, please contact the Eugene Dupuch Law School at admin@edls.edu.bs or 242-326-8507.
