Caribbean Court of Justice Celebrates 20 Years of Upholding Regional Rule of Law

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) commemorated its 20th anniversary on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, with an interfaith service of reflection and prayer at Queen’s Hall in Port of Spain, Trinidad. The ceremony brought together regional dignitaries, legal professionals, and members of the diplomatic corps, with Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, in attendance.

The event marked two decades since the CCJ’s establishment in 2005 as the region’s final appellate court and the guardian of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy. During that time, the Court has delivered over 400 appellate judgements and 37 decisions in its original jurisdiction, many of which have addressed constitutional rights, trade disputes, and the free movement of CARICOM nationals.

CCJ President, the Honourable Mr Justice Adrian Saunders, described the anniversary as a moment for gratitude, noting the Court’s commitment to justice, innovation, and independence. Commissioner Sophia Chote SC echoed those sentiments, praising the Court’s high standards and contributions to legal education through the CCJ Academy for Law.