Introduction to the Festschrift in Honor of Henry J. Richardson III

Abstract

This article introduces a festschrift celebrating Professor Henry J. Richardson III for his many contributions to the field of international law, and in particular his analysis of the relationship between international law and African-Americans and Africans, including the anti-apartheid movement, development, and self-determination, as well as the international protection of human rights. The articles also reflect on his pioneering interpretation of international law through critical race theory and his central role in developing Third World Approaches to International Law (TWAIL) theory.

The festschrift volume begins with several articles that explore central themes of Professor Richardson‘s work: human rights, self-determination, intervention, the International Criminal Court and its relationship to Africa, and economic justice. These pieces draw foundations and inspiration from Professor Richardson‘s scholarship, offering rich analyses of cutting-edge contemporary issues and problems and original insights into potential solutions. The second group of articles focuses directly on Professor Richardson‘s scholarship, describing his substance, method, and genius. The final two articles describe Professor Richardson as a person: a pioneer, a man of integrity, and a race man.

Keywords: International Law, International Human Rights Law, TWAIL, Development, Self-Determination, Anti-Apartheid, Critical Race Theory, Africa, African-American Studies

JEL Classification: K33