Skip to main content
A Singapore Government Agency Website How to identify
Official website links end with .gov.sg
Government agencies communicate via .gov.sg websites (e.g. go.gov.sg/open). Trusted websites
Secure websites use HTTPS
Look for a lock () or https:// as an added precaution. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Government officials will NEVER ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call.

Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam.For more information on how to protect yourself against scam, please visit the ScamShield website.

ICJ Candidate Rena Lee

Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan

Singapore is nominating Ambassador Rena Lee for election as a Judge of the International Court of Justice in 2026. Read the full statement of support from Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.

Last updated 18 March 2026

Statement of Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan

Two people in formal attire shaking hands in front of the Singapore coat of arms on a marble wall.

         I am pleased to fully support the intention of the Singapore National Group of the Permanent Court of Arbitration to nominate Ambassador for International Law Rena Lee for election as a Judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2026.

         This will be the first time a Singaporean is nominated for election as an ICJ Judge since Singapore joined the United Nations in 1965. Ambassador Lee is a distinguished practitioner of international law, who is well-known to the international community. As President of the Intergovernmental Conference on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), Ambassador Lee demonstrated able leadership of the negotiations which led to the consensus adoption of the BBNJ Agreement. This exemplifies Singapore’s proud tradition as a thought leader in the law of the sea, and a trusted bridge-builder in the international community.

         Ambassador Lee has over three decades of public service including as a diplomat in The Hague; a legal advisor to and negotiator for the Singapore Government across the full spectrum of international law, particularly law of the sea, climate change and environmental law, international humanitarian law, human rights law, and disarmament law; and as Chief Executive of the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore. She has also served as an elected member of the Legal and Technical Commission of the International Seabed Authority, and is a Member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. 

         Ambassador Lee embodies the spirit of impartiality, integrity, and independence of mind invoked in the solemn declaration that all ICJ Judges make before assuming their duties. If elected, she will also enhance the diversity of representation and perspectives on the bench. I hope we can count on your support