03/11/2026
Congratulations to Ms Rena, our very first Singaporean being elected to the International Court of Justice!
[A Historic Election!]
🇸🇬 Ambassador Rena Lee has just been elected as a Judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), with an overwhelming majority in both the UN General Assembly and the UN Security Council!
This historic first underscores the strong affirmation of the confidence in Rena, amidst a very strong field of candidates up for election. Singapore’s candidature, our very first, represents the value we see in upholding the international rule of law, particularly as a small state, supporting a rules based multilateral system. International law is the common language with which all states, big or small, can transact and the ICJ plays an important role in upholding peaceful settlement of disputes.
Since her candidature was announced, I have had the privilege of supporting Rena’s campaign closely and watching her at close quarters. Over the past many months, she has engaged with governments, understanding and reflecting their concerns and aspirations. It has been a long and demanding campaign, but Rena has shown remarkable resilience, tenacity and quiet determination throughout.
And despite all that she has achieved, she remains the same Rena I have known since our days in law school - warm, thoughtful, deeply principled and wonderfully down-to-earth. And still happiest with a good bowl of fishball noodles!
I would like to add my deep and heartfelt thanks to many colleagues at the Ministry of Law, Singapore, the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs and our many overseas missions, who have worked tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to support Rena’s candidature. This achievement means a great deal to everyone who has been part of the journey. Singapore does not always see the work of our public service officers operating overseas, but they do an incredible job for Singapore.
But above all, I am simply overjoyed for an old friend. There is something very special about seeing someone you have known for so long reach such an important milestone, especially knowing how much she has given to get here.
Congratulations and well done, Rena!