The Silala Case between Chile and Bolivia before the International Court of Justice: Future Implications for International Water Law

On 14 February, Professor Francesco Sindico gave a seminar on the Silala case that Bolivia and Chile had brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). He began by explaining the geographical and historical contexts, before turning to the claims brought by the parties. A critical contention was whether the Silala river was an international watercourse governed by international law or a domestic spring within Bolivia’s jurisdiction. Professor Sindico then spoke about the procedural aspects of the case and concluded by explaining the implications of the arguments and the non-declaratory judgment of this case.

There was an interactive Q&A session with the audience, moderated by Dr Tara Davenport (APCEL Deputy Director and CIL Senior Research Fellow). Professor Sindico addressed questions on the duty to consult in international water law; prior notification; transboundary harm; and the role of science in the ICJ’s decision-making process.

This seminar was jointly organized by APCEL and the Centre for International Law (CIL).

Professor Francesco Sindico delivering his presentation

Dr. Tara Davenport moderating an interactive Q&A