Lesotho Explores Membership with the Permanent Court of Arbitration

On 20th February 2026, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho in Brussels hosted a high-level meeting with the Permanent Court of Arbitration to discuss Lesotho’s potential accession as a Member State. The Lesotho delegation was led by Honourable Neo Matjato Moteane and included Her Excellency Mantoetsi Mohatonyane. Representing the PCA was Secretary-General Dr. Hab. Marcin Czepelak. The engagement provided an opportunity for detailed discussions on the benefits and responsibilities of PCA membership. It also allowed Lesotho to explore how accession could strengthen its presence in international law and arbitration. The meeting reflected Lesotho’s strategic interest in aligning with institutions that promote peace, justice, and legal capacity building.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration, established under the 1899 and 1907 Hague Conventions, serves as an independent intergovernmental institution for resolving disputes between states, state-controlled entities, and private parties. The PCA provides arbitration, conciliation, and other mechanisms that allow conflicts to be resolved efficiently and peacefully. Its services are recognized globally for maintaining neutrality and legal rigor in international dispute resolution. Member States benefit from a structured framework that supports both preventive and remedial measures in legal conflicts. The PCA also offers specialized resources and guidance for governments seeking to strengthen their legal and institutional capacities.

During the follow-up meeting, Dr. Czepelak emphasized the practical advantages of PCA membership for Lesotho. He highlighted access to specialized training programs for government officials, as well as opportunities for law graduates through the Educational Assistance Fund. Membership would also allow Lesotho to nominate legal experts to the “Members of the Court” list and gain access to hearing facilities at the Peace Palace in The Hague and PCA offices worldwide. With a modest annual contribution, the country could enhance its credibility and influence in international legal circles. Dr. Czepelak underscored that membership would provide both strategic visibility and practical tools for building domestic legal capacity.

The discussions also addressed how PCA membership would align with Lesotho’s broader national objectives. By joining the PCA, Lesotho would demonstrate a firm commitment to upholding international law and norms. The partnership would support capacity-building initiatives, strengthen professional development for legal practitioners, and enhance the country’s ability to participate in arbitration at an international level. It would position Lesotho as a credible forum for resolving disputes and engaging in global legal discourse. The meeting reflected a shared understanding that formal accession would create tangible benefits for governance, legal education, and international relations.

Lesotho’s consideration of PCA membership represents a strategic step in strengthening its international legal standing and governance frameworks. The engagement with PCA leadership provided clarity on the responsibilities, advantages, and opportunities associated with membership. Accession would enable Lesotho to contribute to global dispute resolution while building domestic expertise and professional networks. It would also signal the country’s commitment to peace, justice, and the rule of law. By joining the PCA, Lesotho positions itself as a stable, credible actor on the international stage with enhanced capacity for arbitration and legal diplomacy.