The 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World (ICCJW) was organized by the World Unity Education Department (WUED) of City Montessori School (CMS), Lucknow from December 12 – 16, 2008 in the city of Lucknow, capital of the state of Uttar Pradesh in India. The conference was attended by delegates of 51 countries which included 18 Heads of Judiciary, five former chief justices, four deputy chief justices, 19 judges representing judicial heads, two Members of Permanent Court of Arbitration, one attorney general, 38 judges and eminent representatives of NGOs from around the world.

The theme of the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World was ‘Empower the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to safeguard the future of the world’s two billion children and generations yet-to-be-born’. These distinguished delegates including legal luminaries, educationists and peace promoters of renowned peace organisations have been assembling at CMS on the call of its students to discuss ways and means to unite the world and avert a possible 3rd World War, find a solution to international terrorism and deteriorating world environment. This, in turn, will help to safeguard the future of world’s two billion children and generations yet-to-be-born.

CMS seeks the support of the world judiciary as the school feels that ‘World judiciary is the last hope for humanity’s survival’. The fact remains that the exalted stature and reputation of the judiciary is potent enough to influence politicians in power, who can take decisions. CMS sees a new ray of hope in a united world judiciary that could compel national governments to surrender a part of their sovereignty, particularly the right to wage war, in order to safeguard the rights of the world’s children and generations yet-to-be-born.

The foundation of these conferences is Article 51 of the Constitution of India which relates to international peace and security. Article 51 provides that The State shall endeavour to: a) Promote international peace and security; b) maintain just and honourable relations between nations; c) Foster respect for international law and; d) Encourage settlement of international disputes by arbitration.

No other country has such a provision in its constitution that is purely based on the unique Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam’ (The whole world is but one family). Spreading knowledge of such noble concepts in young, impressionable minds of CMS students has resulted in effectively instilling in them the value of global understanding in this modern internet-driven computer age.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Delegates of the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World began arriving in New Delhi from December 8. They were accommodated in Hotel Ashok. At 6 am early morning on December 10, they assembled in the hotel lobby and then boarded two luxury buses for the much looked forward visit to Agra. After breakfast enroute to the famous city and lunch at ITC Mughal in Agra, it was time to see the memorable Taj Mahal. The honoured guests came face to face with this wonder of the world around noon. After enjoying and clicking a number of photographs of the glorious monument, the distinguished participants then boarded the buses for the return trip to New Delhi.

Thursday, 11th December 2008
The eventful day began with a visit to Samadhi (Memorial) of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, New Delhi. The delegates laid wreaths and offered tributes to the Father of the Nation. A number of TV channels and photojournalists of the print media covered this event. This was followed by signing of the visitor’s book at the memorial. Many judges recorded their experience in this book. The judges were then presented with a memento each by Hon’ble Mr Justice S N Phukan, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India. This was followed by a press conference and lunch at Satyagrah Mandap in Gandhi Darshan premises opposite Rajghat. While addressing the media, the hon’ble judges talked about the objective of the International Conference of Chief Justices of the World and why they were taking part in it. After lunch, the delegates reached Phoolwari Restaurant in Pragati Maidan where they were welcomed at a reception by members of the International Bench and Bar Association in the city. The same evening, the delegates were accorded a warm reception by Her Excellency Mrs Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the President of India in the Yellow Drawing Room at Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s House). Addressing the delegates, Her Excellency Madam President said that in India, judiciary plays an important role in not only upholding the constitution and dispensing justice but also in bringing in principles of international law in their judicial pronouncements. The Judiciary has and will continue to be an important pillar of India's democratic framework. A group photograph of all the distinguished members of the world judiciary with H.E Mrs Patil was also taken. This was followed by refreshments in the Grey Drawing Room adjacent to the Yellow Drawing Room of the distinguished President’s House. A 5-member live band of the Indian Navy played melodious tunes and kept the guests entertained.

Friday, 12th December 2008
On the morning of 12th December, all participants flew down to Lucknow from New Delhi and were given a warm welcome by the CMS students, management, teachers and staff at the Lucknow airport. Upon arrival at Lucknow, Hon'ble Mr Justice B. J. Odoki, Chief Justice of Uganda, said that all the Chief Justices are extremely sorrowful and shocked at the recent terrorist attack in Mumbai. Now the time has come for the whole world to be united under a World Judicial System. Only then, can we hope to wipe out grave global problems like terrorism from the face of the earth. Expressing his thoughts on the occasion, Hon'ble Mr Justice Prof Abdul Salam Azimi, Chief Justice of Afghanistan, said that the greatest need of the hour is that the countries of the world be united. We must be concerned about the safety of our neighbours also along with our own well-being. Recipient of UNESCO Prize for Peace Education-2006, former Vice-President of International Court of Justice, the Hague, Netherlands and former Judge, Supreme Court of Sri Lanka, Hon'ble Mr Justice C G Weeramantry said that the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi had become more relevant today and the whole world should imbibe it now and must endeavour to win the hearts of people with non-violence, truth and love and eradicate terrorism completely from the earth. Hon'ble Mr Justice Weeramantry said we have full faith in this International Conference organized by CMS and that we will gain new inspiration on the sacred soil of India to brighten our tomorrow and form a New World Order. Hon'ble Madam Justice Leslie M Alden from USA, President, International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) said that often the geographical conditions do not suit humanity and people become prey to natural disasters like tsunamis and earthquakes. If there is coordination among countries, then humanity can be saved and Enforceable International Law and order will have greater effectiveness.

A warm welcome ceremony was held for the delegates of the 2008 World Judiciary Summit on the 12th December, 2008. The main events of the day were inauguration of the World Peace Gallery, Press Conference, welcome ceremony and cultural presentation in honour of the distinguished participants.

The welcome ceremony was graced by colourful performances of CMS students in the evening at World Unity Convention Centre of City Montessori School, Lucknow. Students of CMS Kanpur Road campus presented an amazing World Parliament on the occasion. They very convincingly put across to the World Judiciary the deep concerns of our children to grave problems of the modern day world afflicting the entire mankind and endangering its very existence on earth.

The welcome function in the evening was inaugurated by Chief Guest Hon'ble Mr Nasimuddin Siddiqui, Minister for Public Works, Irrigation, Housing and Urban Planning, Excise and Prohibition, Cane Development and Sugar Industries, Government of UP and presided over by Hon’ble Dr Dinesh Sharma, Mayor of Lucknow. On this occasion, Hon’ble Dr Dinesh Sharma, Mayor of Lucknow honoured Hon’ble Madam Justice Graciela Dixon, Former Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Panama and Former President, International Association of women Judges by presenting her the key to the City of Lucknow, on behalf of 4 million citizens of Lucknow for her outstanding contribution to the cause of world peace. Justice Dixon in her acceptance speech said that it was huge honour for her to have received the key to City of Lucknow. The momentous event, she said, had touched her heart and entailed her to be more responsible and more committed to give freedom and justice in the whole world. "I am citizen of world and I will work to unite the world", was assured by her to the audience.

Mr Jagdish Gandhi, Convener of the Conference and Founder-Manager of City Montessori School (CMS) introduced the chief guest to the participants and the audience.

Hon’ble Mr Justice A M Ahmadi, Former Chief Justice, Supreme Court of India speaking on the occasion congratulated CMS for its efforts, year after year, in striving to achieve safe future for children. He concluded his speech by asserting that the energy released at this event needs to be channelised to ensure that fruits of such a big gathering do not go waste.

A traditional bell ringing ceremony was conducted when Mrs Hong Tao-Tze, Vice-President of Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) from Taiwan invited Mr Jagdish Gandhi to ring the Bell of World Peace and Love and make a wish to unite the people of the World in World Peace.

The 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World had 6 sessions. All the sessions commenced with the presentation of appeal by CMS students representing the two billion children of the world. The students’ plea was directed at the Chief Justices of the world highlighting important issues close to their heart and also imploring them to empower the International Court of Justice to safeguard the future of all children against perils of the world.

Inaugural Session - Saturday morning, 13th December, 2008 (9 am to 1 pm)
Before commencement of the inaugural session, a World Unity March was organized by CMS to commemorate the spirit of the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the world and Global Symposium for awakening planetary consciousness. The march was led by hon’ble chief justices and judges of the world and joined by the teachers and students of CMS wearing colourful dresses representing various sections of society, judiciary, various nationalities and world citizens, interspersed by bands and songs of unity and peace. The inaugural session commenced with prayers followed by presentation of a special session of Model World Parliament by students of CMS.  Chief Guest Hon’ble Mr Sukhdev Rajbhar, Speaker of the U P Legislative Assembly declared the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World officially open at 9 am. In his inaugural address Mr Rajbhar congratulated Mr and Mrs Gandhi for organizing the conference for sending a message to World Judiciary for making children's future safe and secure by initiating measures to formulate Enforceable International Law under the provisions of Article 51 of Indian Constitution.

After honouring of participants, Hon’ble Madam Justice Graciela Dixon, Former Chief Justice of Panama in her welcome address appreciated the extraordinary efforts of CMS in organizing International Conferences of Chief Justices of the world which she first attended in 2006. Judges, she said, were the best persons to understand children's plight and courts should do something for them. She further expressed that judges were special people with power and responsibility and hence can take steps to start exploring how much can really be done to establish peace after we speak to each other and do our best for children. She extended a hearty welcome to all patrons of the International Conference of Chief Justices of the World.

Around 20 young members of FOWPAL, a group from Taiwan then presented aerobics. This was followed by blowing of peace gong brought by them. Mr Sukhdev Rajbhar, Speaker, Legislative Assembly of Uttar Pradesh State blew the gong. The participants of the 9th Conference paid homage to the victims of the terror attack in Mumbai on 26th November, 2008 by lighting a candle in their hand and observing a minute’s silence.

Hon’ble Mr Justice A M Ahmadi, Former Chief Justice, Supreme Court of India, in his keynote address said, “I had come here earlier and felt the anxiety amongst children about their safety and security in future. I had seen their misery in Timor when I had gone there with the UN delegation and in Zimbabwe where the chief justice was summarily removed by the Government Constitutional functionaries like chief justices, and judges were removed. Judges are responsible to ensure implementation of Human Rights as per convention of 1966. However these rights were violated with impunity particularly of the children, who are helpless and do not know about their rights. I know they have certain limitations and parameters. Still they can act within their limitations and see to it that human rights are not violated with impunity. The retired judges can play their roles to protect human rights.

Hon’ble Madam Justice Leslie M Alden (USA), President, International Association of Women Judges in her address said that domestic and family violence against women and children was growing in the world. Even children were becoming violent. Such violence mars child's health and progress. Government and its agencies become indifferent in such cases. With the efforts of Peace Association in USA violence has decreased. Legal provisions have been explained to women and children to take remedial measure by reporting cases to police.

Hon’ble Mr Justice Noor-e-Alam Chowdhary, Former Acting Chief Justice, Calcutta High Court, India said that he had tried to reform the system of reducing crime in society but things had not changed much. He further said that justice should not be confined to courts.

Mr Ravi Prakash Gupta, advocate, Supreme Court of India in his speech called upon all chief justices and judges to consider measures against international and cross-border terrorism.

First Plenary Session - Saturday afternoon, 13th December, 2008 (2 pm to 5.30 pm)
The session was presided over by Hon’ble Mr Justice S.N. Phukan, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India. In his presidential address Justice Phukan said that the children have reposed their confidence in judges and we should not break it. The sitting judges can be much more effective in safeguarding their rights. We have a responsibility that the globe which we hand over to our children is not a damaged one.

Hon’ble Mr Justice P.B. Sawant, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India, spoke of equal distribution of natural resources. He stressed that national and international courts must finish terrorism and create conditions for peace on the earth. Future of children was not a subject of dispute and courts must ensure that rights of children are guarded and protected.

Addressing the audience, Hon'ble Mr. Shanti Bhushan, Former Law Minister of India said that there are large number deficiencies in the character of U.N.O. and as such they do not have any answer to problems faced by the people of the world. While speaking on recent terrorist attack in Mumbai he said that military action against Pakistan was not the solution to any problem. He said that terrorists would continue attacking all countries and common man will continue to suffer, if we do not change political will altogether.

In his opening address, Hon'ble Mr. Justice A.P. Mishra, Former Judge of Supreme Court of India and Chairman of the preparatory committee of the conference explained the aim of the conference and said that there was chaos and confusion all over the world, countries were in conflicts, terrorism was spreading very fast and global warming was a major concern. He further said that human values should be infused in children around the world. Spiritual force can cure terrorism and bring peace for all.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice C.G. Weeramantry, Former Vice-President, International Court of Justice said that we should develop customary laws. All religions should promote and safeguard the future of children. All religions teach us good things and are the best source to avoid war and conflicts, but unfortunately we do not realize it. He said that nuclear weapons should not be used under any circumstances. Hinduism does not permit use of weapons of mass destruction. These are the common laws of religions & faith as well.

While advocating for peace around the world, Hon'ble Mr. Justice B.J. Odoki, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Uganda, said that the UN Judicial systems needs to be strengthened. Peace promoters must do more as this was the only way to peace. He stressed that we should support children in their efforts as they are our future.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice Ade Renner – Thomas, Former Chief Justices, Supreme Court of Sierra Leone, in his address said the recent situation was grim and that we should go all out to promote peace for the safety of 2 billion children of the world by strengthening the UNO and International Court of Justice.

While addressing the gathering, Hon'ble Prof. Justice Abdul Salam Azimi, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Afghanistan said his country was facing problems like terrorism, pollution, poverty and drug trafficking. He said that it was mandatory to have a rule of law.

Hon'ble Mr Justice A. Ranjan Perera, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Seychelles, in his address listed actions taken in Seychelles for safeguarding the rights of children. He touched upon Children’s Act, National Council of Children, Rights of child and human rights of children. He said that the act and rules protect children from underage employment and that ICJ should be given much more power to play proactive role in safeguarding the rights of children.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice Anthony Gates, Acting Chief Justice, High Court of Fiji Islands said that we should look both at (1) The provisions of the Article 51 of the Constitution of India for peace, security and justice and (2) Racism, arrogance, intolerance and resentment among nations.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice Dorjgotov Baasan, Judge, Criminal Court of the Supreme Court of Mongolia emphasized in his address that children should be armed with rights in addition to other rights for protecting them from child prostitution and home violence. Their abuse undermined National development. He recounted the resolutions recognizing children's rights and special rights for them.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Rolande Matte, Judge de la Cour du Quebec, Canada while addressing the audience said that children deserved full consideration for their pleas. She expressed concern about child abuse and harassment against children of all age all over the world and said that Canada had a set of rules and regulations for protecting children's rights and providing basic need. She pointed out that success did not depend only on the International Court of Justice. Everyone including government, private sector and all citizens of the world should cooperate for making the world safe.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice P.V. Reddy, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India in his address recalled Swami Vivekananda and said he hoped that the deliberations would open a new era and that children will be torchbearers.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice M Karpaga Vinayagam, Former Chief Justice, Jharkhand High Court, India and Chairperson of the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity, India in his address touched upon the practical problems involved in empowering the International Court of Justice (ICJ). He further said that the solution was to catch young minds and infuse human values in them.

Hon'ble Mr Justice D.P. Singh, Judge, Allahabad High Court, Lucknow Bench, India expressed that children were the victims all over the world and Global warming was a threat to human race. He said that to be really human we should preserve life of animals and forests.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr (Mrs) Bharti Gandhi, Founder-Director, CMS, Lucknow, India at the end of the session.

Second Plenary Session – Sunday Morning, 14th December, 2008 (9 am to 1 pm)
Once again the day started with a World Unity March which was led by Hon’ble chief justices, judges and peace activists and followed by principals, teachers and students of CMS. At the end of the march, Hon’ble Mr Justice Vishnu Sahai, former Judge, Allahabad High Court stressed upon the importance of Article 51 of the Constitution of India and how it can contribute to world peace.

In his opening address of the Second Plenary Session, Justice Sahai said that territorial wars were a cause of insecurity all over the world. Children deserved a right to safe life. He further emphasized that Article 51 of the Constitution of India and its four guidelines were obligatory for a state. He said that the example of European Union could be adopted for a union of world countries or a world government and that there was a great hope from Mr Obama, President-elect of USA in this regard.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Vincent A. De Gaetano, Chief Justice, Courts of Justice of Malta in his keynote address reiterated that terrorism, financial crisis, poverty and child abuse needed to be wiped out. He pointed out that the European court of human rights was very active in this regard.  He emphasized that Peace on Earth was possible only if laws of countries were scrupulously honoured. Finally, he said that a global authority was needed for implementation of human rights and justice and if judges can manage the human rights implementation, the world will be a better place to live in.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Hasan Gerceker, First President, Supreme Court of Turkey in his address said that while making legal regulations, family and child's interests must be taken into account. He lauded the contributions of Kamal Ataturk, a great leader of Turkey and said that Turkey's law prevented employment of children in industries and other child labour. Further, it was the duty of every country to protect the rights of children and human rights as per United Nations convention.

Hon'ble Mr Justice K. Lapinskas, President of the Constitutional Court, Lithuania laid emphasis on the need for providing freedom to children in family and society as per United Nations Convention of the year 1989 on Rights of children. He further pointed out that the Constitution of Lithuania had satisfactory provisions for the protection of children's rights as envisaged in UN Human Rights Convention.

In his address, Hon'ble Mr Justice Cheick Ouedrago, Premier President de la Cour de Cassation of Burkinafaso said that children were vulnerable to violence all over the world. He mentioned that it was unfortunate that even 20 years after the child rights convention children were still getting abused sexually and also used as bonded labour.

Hon’ble Mr. Justice Saifullo Giyoev, Deputy Chairman of Supreme Court of The Republic of Tajikistan in his address informed the participants that ever since Tajikistan came into being it had adopted adequate measures to protect children's rights in its constitution. He further briefed about the legal measures adopted in Tajikistan Law about children's rights against exploitation up to the age of 14 years.

Speaking on the occasion, Hon'ble Madam Justice Shpresa Besaj, Chief Justice, Supreme Court, Albania informed that Albania had provided adequate measures for safety, security, education, health and medical care of children, guaranteed by the courts of the country.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Esmeralda Arosemena de Troitiño Vice-President, Supreme Court of Justice, Panama in her speech rightfully demanded protection of rights of children and generations yet to be born and asked all the administrators of justice to guarantee enforceability of human rights of children. She commended the CMS children's appeal for protection of rights of world's 2 billion children and recommended that fundamental rights of children of world must be protected.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Paula Escarameia, Professor of International Law, Member of International Law Commission and Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration, Portugal while addressing the participants informed that Articles 15 and 22 of UN General Assembly contain the provisions for safety and security of children and have been incorporated in international law. Other such provisions are introduced in UN General Assembly from time to time and adopted for implementation under the Geneva Convention.

While addressing the audience, Hon'ble Madam Justice Svetlana Krickay Mikhailovna, Judge, Supreme Court Kyrgyz Republic said that today no country in the world was having perfect implementation of the provisions of human rights. All countries should be required to formulate their own laws for their citizens and children.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice B.S. Roy, Judge, Court of Appeal of Guyana in his address said that though comprehensive measures had been taken by UN and International Court of Justice for the safety and welfare of children, they have not been made justifiable.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Daniel David Ntanda Nsereko, Judge, International Criminal Court, Netherlands pointed out in his speech that violations of human rights continue all over the world and more in African Continent and many other countries including India. Conscription of young children is done by many countries, which is violation of human rights and is illegal.

Addressing the audience, Hon'ble Madam Justice Marianne de Rooij, Regional Director IAWJ of Europe and Middle East and Vice President, Amesterdam District Court Netherlands informed that one of the important conventions of Europe of 1st July 2000 was convention for children wherein children's rights and protection of children against sexual exploitation and abuse, as a criminal offence even in own house have been incorporated. She also informed that recently European Union partners had adopted protection of children's laws and that there was a consensus in European countries on children's rights in respect of provisions of UN convention of human rights.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Fernanda Cervetti, Judge, Tribunal Turin, Italy informed the participants that no discrimination amongst children on account of religion or language was done in her country.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice S.B. Domah, Judge Supreme court of Mauritius speaking on the occasion said that judges cannot listen to children individually. However voice of children will be heard by everyone. CMS had all the energies and intentions to bring a change in the life of children which no other country would dare to do.

Mr. R.K. Mittal, IAS, Principal Secretary and Commissioner, Social welfare, U. P. Govt. commented in his speech that there had been a steady decline in human values in present generation and we have to take serious action to prevent it.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Victor Nunez Rodriguez, Presidente de la Corte Suprema de Justicia of Paraguay said in his speech that human rights, irrespective of race, religion and status of a man was contained in the constitution of Paraguay and that his country accepted the human rights convention of UNO about rights and privilege of children and scrupulously followed its provisions.

A vote of thanks was delivered at the end of the session by Mr Vinay Gandhi, Founder, United World School.

Third Plenary Session - Sunday Afternoon, 14th December, 2008 (2 pm to 5.30 pm)
The keynote address for the third plenary session was delivered by Hon'ble Mr Justice Virgillijus Valancius, President, Supreme Administrative Court of Lithuania. In his address he accepted that global problems needed global solutions and advocated that peace and harmony were prerequisites for equal justice for all.

In her address, Hon'ble Madam Justice Sauda Mjaisri, Judge, Courts of Justice of Tanzania made the point that all the atrocities like famine, terrorism, global warming and child labour were adversely affecting children. She agreed that International Court of Justice could protect children's rights to a safe future but opined that the court had its limitations. So there was need of mutual consent by its member countries to solve the global issue of human rights and children's rights.

Speaking on the occasion Hon'ble Madam Justice Erna Hayriyan, Chairman of the Civil Court of Yerevan, Armenia stressed on the need to develop the system and traditions to improve children's and women's rights, social progress and conditions of life. She advised that the International Convention of UN on children's right was a milestone achievement in this direction.

Hon'ble Mr Mignel Carlos Sanchez, Director, Supreme Court of Chile made a presentation on his Supreme Court's working. He informed that the Supreme Court of Chile was the second oldest in the world after that of America. He presented history of progressive convention of UN held on children's rights and also showed methods of improving the system of judiciary on the lines of the types of courts established in his country.

In her presidential address, Hon'ble Madam Justice Fatima Bibi, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India opined that lack of political will was the reason behind continuous threats of war and violence. She said that women and children suffer most in wars.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice Khampha Sengara, Deputy Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Lao PDR in his speech suggested that the judiciary should make laws to provide education to all children and a safe place for children to live in.

In her address, Hon'ble Mr Justice Trendafil Ivanovski, President, Constitutional Court of the Republic of Macedonia opined that progressive ideas were spread in the younger generations but governments of states were responsible for the children's problems still going on. He strongly advocated that enforcing and empowering International Court of Justice will be an advantage to combat global problems.

Hon'ble Mr. Justice Julius Ansah, Judge, Supreme Court of Ghana while addressing the audience expressed that lack of political will was the reason due to which students and children of today were put to new hazards of diseases, environmental pollution, poverty in developing countries and unhealthy living conditions. He opined that International Court of Justice can be made more powerful by appointing more judges to deal with different types of crimes.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Ingrid Mangatal, Judge, Supreme Court of Jamaica reading the speech of her chief justice said that judiciary can play an important role in protecting children's rights. She further said that the problem of children being murdered, mutilated and abused was deeply concerning. She supported the initiation of all countries for safety of children's rights and empowering International Court of Justice.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Anelise Haase De Miranda, Judge, Labour Court of the states of the Para and Amapa, Brazil, speaking on the occasion said that judges were respected for their power of decision but they were not gods. She, however, asserted that they still had the responsibility to take care of children.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Susana Medina De Rizzo, President, N03 del Trabajo of Argentina made a multimedia presentation on Mahatma Gandhi, strongly advocating the spinning and weaving of cloth by every person and all ministers to make them humble. She opined that beyond economic crisis lies the moral crisis and expressed her commitment to ensure human rights for all which was also the duty of the judiciary.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Theodosius Tete Tekoe, President of the Supreme Court of Togo appreciated that the campaign "Let us Unite" was drawing attention of the international community. He said that at present the International Court of Justice had limitations and there was need to empower it within the framework.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Hartman Longley, Judge, Court of Appeal of Bahamas opined that as per the UN constitution, veto powers can set aside any judgment by all countries. Under such circumstances he felt it was the duty of the judiciary to ensure that children's rights were protected.

Dr (Mrs) Sunita Gandhi, Founder, City International School delivered the vote of thanks at the end of the session.
           
Fourth Plenary Session - Sunday Morning, 15th December, 2008 (9 am to 1 pm)
The fourth plenary session started with the opening address by Mr R C Gupta, General Secretary, CMS and General Secretary of the Conference. Mr Gupta dwelt on the appeal of CMS children, who expressed their genuine concerns of a safe future and conveyed to the participants that in CMS, students had a dream, expectation, vision and responsibility to change that dream to reality. He expressed the hope that a course of action to tackle problems concerning children would be devised and mindset of people would be changed with united action.

Hon'ble Justice Dr Jane Mayemu Ansah, Attorney General, Malawi shared her concerns of future of children and asserted that children were our hope of future. She mentioned various steps that were being taken in her country to safeguard against exploitation and specially the rights of minor children. She also dwelt on implementation of policies for development, mental, spiritual and social advancement of children.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Abdou Kareem Savage, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Gambia in his speech asserted that millions were spent on International Court of Justice whose rulings were not followed by nations. Thereby UNO needs re-chartering. He mooted the idea that major TV networks should broadcast activities of CMS across the globe for half an hour daily. This he said would help people to develop spirit of oneness and peace amongst the people.

In his presidential address, Hon'ble Mr Justice George J F Stephen Moise, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Haiti said that his country was a country of slaves and children were the worst affected due to poor leaders and natural disasters. Fifty percent of children do not go to school and education is best tool for development, economy and poverty elimination. UNO was not able to fulfill its role and goal of maintaining peace and safety.

Addressing the participants, Hon'ble Madam Joan Winship (USA), Executive Director, International Association of Woman Judges (IAWJ) apprised the audience that IAWJ has 4000 women judges as members from 90 diverse countries and share their commonality and differences. She said that she recognized importance of International law and International Court of Justice and counseled everyone to act in their own capacities with spirited commitment to make the earth a better place, a peaceful place with protected human rights.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Evande Mwambo Paul R., President of the High Court, South West Province, Cameroon in his speech dwelt on importance of strengthening ICJ and remarked the NGO's have no access to court. He also dwelt on various provisions of UNO character and mooted the idea that violation of international law if done in any country must be construed as a crime and dealt with accordingly.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Anabella Leon Feoli, President of First Law Court, Costa Rica in her speech dwelt on child related problems like orphanhood, abortion, prostitution, detention, corporal punishment, humiliation, sufferings due to aggression of which they are not part of and host of other children related problems. She propagated various provisions to protect children in her country and highlighted in International Court of Justice. She recommended empowerment of International Court of Justice for protection of children.

Addressing the audience, Hon'ble Mr Justice A S Qureshi, Former Judge, Gujrat High Court, India remarked that today it was not safe even to venture outside and not even in their own homes. Encouraging children, he told them that they have very high potential and capability and with their will power, determination, dedication and persistent efforts, they would create a place in history and would be remembered by generations.

In her address, Hon'ble Madam Justice Gauri Dhakal, Judge, Supreme Court of Nepal dwelt on empowering International Court of Justice for protection of children.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Jacobus P Annandale, Judge, High Court, Swaziland expressed his shock on recent Mumbai attacks. He remarked that the world had survived two world wars and cannot afford another war which might destroy the human race altogether. "We need to force international law to stop conflicts of all kind. If you do not stop the terrorist attack now, it will be too late to bring about peace. We have to know how to obtain peace around the world".

Hon'ble Mr Justice Jovo Vangelovski, President, Supreme Court of Republic of Macedonia in his speech opined that children today were more vulnerable than ever before. International Court can only do justice to safeguard the future of the children. For positive results, he commented that courts must act promptly and fulfill the aspirations of children.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Mohammed Abdul Matin, Judge, Appellate Division of Supreme Court, Bangladesh in his speech echoed the words of Hon'ble Madam Justice Graciela Dixon that, 'we judges can change the reality'. He narrated how in USA, a judge, Mr Earl Warran influenced eight judges to give a judgement in favour of a black citizen, who was a slave and was being resold by his master despite the victim having lead his life in a free country. He re-affirmed that action of just one judge lead to dispensation of justice to an oppressed person.

Closing Session - Sunday Afternoon, 15th December, 2008 (2 pm to 5.30 pm)
The closing session of the 9th International Conference was presided over by Hon’ble Mr Justice Abderahim Bireme Hamid, President, Supreme Court of Tchad. In his address, Hon’ble Mr Justice Abderahim opined that two important documents came out from the International Conventions of United Nations, in 1990 and 1992 with regards to protection of children's rights. Those documents provided for improving system of healthcare, proper nutrition and education for all children. He stressed on the need for taking strict measures to ensure that schools also should be made responsible to take corrective steps for safeguarding children's rights and their education.

Hon'ble Professor Mohammed Y Olwan, Member, Permanent Court of Arbitration, Jordan expressing his views on the occasion, agreed that UN conventions held in 1990 and 1992 had declared the need to protect rights of children but those documents were not legal documents. The agencies to enforce those declarations were not specified. In view of this he further agreed that the International Court of Justice was in force but there was need to empower it and extend its jurisdiction.

Addressing participants on the occasion, Hon'ble Madam Justice Sharadha Shrestha, Former Judge, Supreme Court of Nepal told the audience that in consideration of children's appeal, she had made some laws in her country to curb violence, terrorism and stop ecological imbalance and thereby she had done her duty to some extent. If others also followed the same path then a safe future for children could be ensured.

Hon'ble Mr Justice Kindji Tranquillin, Judge, Administrative Chamber, Supreme Court of Benin in his speech opined that he was inspired by what the children said in their appeal. He invited attention and concerns of all for the need to take corrective measures and find global solution for children's rights.

Hon'ble Madam Justice Susan Chipswa Mavangira, Judge, High Court of Zimbabwe in her speech said that her Chief Justice had expressed hope that various conventions held so far on the issue of children's rights will prove successful and that she shared the view that empowering International Court of Justice was the only means which could implement UN declarations on these issues.

In her address, Hon'ble Madam Justice Catherine Davani, Judge, National & Supreme Court of Justice, Papua New Guinea expressed that the idea of World Parliament and World Government was far fetched but she supported the need of world government and said that suggestion of judges for education of international law in the university course will widen the scope of peace education.

Dr (Mrs) Geeta Gandhi Kingdon, Professor and Chairholder of Education, Economics and International Development, University of London, U.K. proposed the vote of thanks at the end of the session.

Working Group Meet of Chief Justices and Judges of the World
Two Working Group Meets of the eminent participants of the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World was organized on the 13th and 14th December to discuss and deliberate upon various issues before the conference. The themes of the two working groups were: (1) Challenges of the 21st century, need for Enforceable World (International) law, strengthening of UNO and to empower the International Court of Justice; and (2) Role of World Judiciary for protection of various human rights and need for imparting unity and peace education, non-violence, universal human values and creating inter-religion harmony. Mr. Ratan Chandra Gupta, General Secretary of CMS and of the Conference briefly presented various issues confronting the world following which Hon’ble Madam Justice Graciela Dixon, Former Chief Justice of Panama initiated the discussion in the first working group which she presided over. The second working group was presided over by Hon’ble Mr Justice C.G. Weeramantry, Former Vice-President of International Court of Justice. After deliberations by the chief justices and judges present at the two working groups, a draft of the resolution was put up which was discussed and adopted with minor amendments in the session on 15th December, 2008. The Resolution as adopted is as follows:

Resolution adopted at the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World on Article 51 of the Constitution of India
We, Judges assembled at the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World held at Lucknow, India, from 12-15 December 2008, having considered the appeal of the 35,000 children of City Montessori School, Lucknow- on their own behalf and on behalf of the children of the world - for a safe environment and peaceful world to be governed by International Law,

REAFFIRM the Resolution of the 7th International Conference of the Chief Justices of the World (2006) and the Lucknow Declaration adopted at the 8th International Conference of the Chief Justices of the World (2007),

HEREBY RESOLVE:

• To work to make peace, human rights and cross-cultural education an essential part of the school curricula throughout the world;
  
  
• To endeavor to make education in International Law an essential requirement of law courses as well as of continuing judicial training;
  
  
• To prepare  training material to assist judicial officers in the interpretation and application of domestic law in the light of international law and conventions for the benefit of the present and future generations;
  
  
• To endeavor to make degradation of the environment universally recognized as a crime against humanity;
  
  
• To establish a follow-up committee to address the concerns and take forward the work of the various International Conferences of Chief Justices of the World.