President Museveni commits Uganda to AALCO’s mission

8 September 2025, 6:03 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

The Asian-African Legal Consultative Organisation (AALCO) has commenced its 63rd annual session in Uganda, bringing together delegations from more than 47 member states across Asia and Africa. The conference, held from 8–12 September 2025 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, aims to advance dialogue on international law, the rule of law, and multilateral cooperation.

President Yoweri Museveni’s message was delivered by the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, during the opening ceremony. In his message, President Museveni reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to AALCO’s mission, highlighting the organisation’s vital role in promoting legal cooperation and advancing the interests of Africa and Asia. He noted that AALCO has been instrumental in ensuring that Africa and Asia remain leaders in global legal discourse, covering areas such as the Law of the Sea, human rights, trade and investment, and environmental protection.

Minister Norbert Mao emphasised the importance of compassion in international relations, stating: “Let us be tough-minded as lawyers, but when making decisions, let us have soft hearts.” He added that Uganda’s experience in hosting nearly two million refugees has taught the nation the value of compassion.

AALCO Secretary-General Dr Kamalinne Pinitpuvadol expressed gratitude to the Ugandan government and people for their warm welcome. He noted that the organisation remains relevant in addressing pressing issues such as climate change, the protection of migrant workers, and emerging technologies.

The session will deliberate on a range of topics, including the Law of the Sea, human rights, trade and investment law, environmental protection, and digital trade. Two new subjects have been added to the agenda: “Provision of Aggression and Use of Force in International Law” and “Violation of International Law by the Rapid Support Force in Sudan.”

This is not the first time Uganda has hosted AALCO; the country last hosted the organisation in 1993.

Dr Pinitpuvadol emphasised the need for AALCO to adapt to new challenges while upholding the principles of sovereignty, solidarity, and justice. The conference aims to strengthen Asia–Africa cooperation and contribute to a fairer and more inclusive global legal order.