Upon receiving the deeply saddening news of the passing of Judge ODA Shigeru on 4 September 2025, I wish, on behalf of the Japanese Society of International Law, to extend our most respectful words of tribute.
Judge ODA often emphasized that we, as international lawyers, must contribute actively to the practice of international law. This conviction was exemplified – indeed, to an unparalleled degree – throughout his own life as both scholar and practitioner. His distinguished achievements are beyond count. After graduating as one of the last students of the Imperial University of Tokyo in 1947, he became special research fellow at the University of Tokyo and was then appointed at Tohoku University as Lecturer (1950), Associate Professor (1953), and Professor (1959). His pioneering doctoral thesis Riches of the Sea and International Law (Yale Law School, 1953), among the earliest works in the world to address “the ocean as a resource”; his role as counsel for Germany in the North Sea Continental Shelf cases (1967–69); his election to the Institut de droit international at the remarkably young age of early forties (1969); and, above all, his twenty-seven years on the bench of the International Court of Justice over three terms (1976–2003), including his tenure as Vice President (1991-1994).
Judge ODA also rendered invaluable service to our Society. Beyond his numerous presentations at annual conferences and contributions to the Journal of International Law and Diplomacy, he made a most generous donation following the completion of his terms at the International Court of Justice. This gift was dedicated to advancing the international reach of the Society’s research activities and fostering the next generation of scholars. In gratitude to his generosity, the Society has annually awarded the ODA Shigeru Award, which recognizes and encourages promising young researchers in public international law, private international law, and international politics/diplomatic history. Furthermore, we have established the ODA Lecture Series, convened every two years, which brings distinguished international lawyers from across the globe to engage in discussion and exchange at our annual meetings. We remain profoundly grateful that, even after his departure, we continue to benefit from his benevolence, and we renew our resolve to carry forward his vision.
Judge ODA was, without question, a great international lawyer and practitioner. Yet for my own generation of scholars, he was not so much a distant dignitary as he was a fatherly presence. Whenever we visited The Hague – whether for the Hague Academy or on other occasions – he never failed to extend his hospitality, offering encouragement, support, and, at times, stern but invaluable advice. For this unfailing kindness, I wish once more to express my deepest gratitude. With heartfelt sincerity, I pray for the repose of his noble soul.
President, Japanese Society of International Law
HAMAMOTO Shotaro
16 September 2025