The designation of Hajer Gueldich as the Legal Advisor to the African Union by the Chairperson of the Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, is a noteworthy accomplishment that signifies several layers of progress and representation. Being the first Tunisian to assume such a prestigious position within the pan-African organization, Gueldich’s selection is a testament to her vast expertise and important contributions to international law and the legal infrastructure of the African Union (AU).
Gueldich’s journey to this position has been characterised by her pivotal roles, such as her leadership within the African Union Law Commission since 2015 and her presidency in 2022. Her involvement in the AU institutional reform project under Rwandan President Paul Kagame’s leadership in 2017, along with the launch of a master’s program in African Union Law and Policies, highlights her dedication to nurturing a new generation of pan-Africanist jurists. These initiatives not only contributed to the legal strengthening of the African Union but also to the broader goal of fostering a unified approach to jurisprudence and legal practice across the continent.
In her new capacity, Gueldich’s responsibilities will include guaranteeing unity and respect for law within the AU, a role that encompasses judicial cooperation, combating terrorism, and promoting human rights across Africa. Her designation underscores the critical importance of legal expertise and leadership in navigating the complicated challenges confronting the continent, from security concerns to the protection of fundamental freedoms.
Moreover, Gueldich’s appointment is a source of pride not only for Tunisia but also for Tunisian and Arab women in the legal profession. It serves as an affirmation of the vital role women play in leadership positions within international organizations and highlights the progress toward gender equality in such spaces. This landmark sets a powerful precedent for the inclusion and recognition of women’s contributions to the legal field and international governance, promoting aspiring female jurists and professionals from the region and beyond.
Hajer Gueldich’s career and her latest appointment reflect a broader narrative of excellence, dedication, and the pursuit of justice. Her work has not only contributed to the legal fabric of the African Union but also to the promotion of a more just, secure, and unified Africa. As she takes on this new role, Gueldich embodies the potential for impactful leadership and the transformative power of legal expertise in shaping the continent’s future
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