The European Tradition in International Law : Charles de Visscher

• Couvreur, P

Abstract

Charles de Visscher began to take an interest in international justice immediately after the First World War. He embarked upon a brilliant career as an advocate before the Permanent Court of International Justice, where he was highly respected for his vigorous capacity for analysis, his precise and illuminating style and thorough understanding of all aspects of the cases he was involved in. Having sat as an ad hoc judge on the PCIJ, he was elected to it in 1937. He sat on the International Court of Justice from 1946 to 1952. While it may be difficult to assess his contribution to the work of the two Courts, as his thought was generally included in the majority opinion, it is indisputable that he exercised great influence there. His authority was great. Despite his natural discretion, Judge de Visscher was always in the front line of struggle for an international order founded upon law and justice. The judicial function occupied an exceptional place in his life and work, a function that he exercised with a distinction, skill and devotion acknowledged by all.