The Gambia

The Gambia, a small West African nation, is currently newsworthy for its role in bringing a case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Gambia is accusing Myanmar of committing genocide against the Rohingya people, a predominantly Muslim minority group. This case stems from a 2017 military crackdown in Myanmar that forced over 730,000 Rohingya to flee to neighboring Bangladesh, where they reported widespread killings, rape, and arson. The Gambia is acting as a third-party rights defender, taking on the case despite not being directly affected by the alleged genocide. Recent developments include Myanmar beginning its defense at the ICJ, denying the genocide allegations and claiming The Gambia has insufficient proof. The ICJ is now hearing arguments from both sides in what is considered a landmark case, with the potential to set a precedent for international justice and accountability for human rights abuses.