Politics & Governance / Law & Institutions / International Law & Treaties

Why NGOs Fail to Influence International Courts: The Truth About Amicus Curiae

Astrid Wiik

Amicus curiae, or 'friend of the court,' is a mechanism that allows external parties to submit information to international courts and tribunals. But does it actually work? Astrid Wiik's groundbreaking study reveals a shocking gap between expectations and reality. Based on extensive empirical research across the International Court of Justice, European Court of Human Rights, WTO, and investment arbitration, Wiik found that NGO submissions rarely sway outcomes. Instead, international organizations dominate, while non-governmental voices are often ignored due to lack of evidence verification and procedural barriers. This video unpacks the hidden dynamics of amicus curiae, exposing why it's more symbolic than substantive. Watch to understand how international justice really operates and why your advocacy might be missing the mark.