Veronica Soon, Professor Sir Ian Brownlie DPhil Scholar
Veronica Soon, Professor Sir Ian Brownlie Judicial DPhil Scholar 2025/26
Programme: DPhil Law
Veronica is the first Malaysian national to be selected by the International Court of Justice to participate in the Judicial Fellowship Programme (2025-2026).
She completed her second year of the DPhil in Law at St Antony’s College. Her thesis ‘Citizenship Deprivation in International Law’ explores the pattern of citizenship deprivation globally, drawing insights from areas of international and regional law.
The fellowship provides an opportunity for a current Oxford University student or recent graduate to work for 10 months at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The donation by Lady Christine Brownlie was made in honour of her husband, who was Chichele Professor of Public International Law at the University (from 1980 to 1999) and who appeared as counsel and advocate in numerous cases before the ICJ.
My experience at the International Court of Justice has been nothing short of life changing. I am part of a cohort of 16 Judicial Fellows and currently assist the Vice President. My time at the Court has been eye-opening as I have had the opportunity to both learn and be part of the judicial mechanics and processes at the Court, for example the life-cycle of a case before the Court: from filing to the public reading of a judgment or order.
My interactions with the judges, law clerks, staff members, and other fellows have been the highlight of my fellowship! I greatly appreciate the intellectual discussions on interesting international legal issues and the life-long friendships I have gained. These experiences have brought different perspectives to my research, and I am sure will influence my future career.