Ms. Marang Sanyang Propels The Gambia to Global Leadership at the United Nations

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

The Gambia has once again stamped its authority on the international stage, securing a prestigious leadership role at the United Nations with the election of Ms. Marang Sanyang as Vice Chair of the Bureau of the UN Preparatory Committee on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity.

The historic election, reached by consensus during the UN Plenary Session on 27 January 2026 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, marks a resounding endorsement of The Gambia’s rising influence in global justice and international lawmaking.

Backed by the African Group, The Gambian delegation—ably led by H.E. Ambassador Lamin Dibba—successfully presented the candidacy of Ms. Sanyang, a seasoned Counsellor and Legal Advisor, whose unanimous election reflects international confidence in Gambian leadership, competence, and moral authority.

This landmark achievement places The Gambia at the heart of a critical global mission: closing one of the most glaring gaps in international law. While genocide and war crimes are governed by binding treaties, crimes against humanity still lack a universal legal convention—a deficit the Preparatory Committee is mandated to address.

The Committee is charged with steering global consultations, examining the International Law Commission’s draft articles, and laying the groundwork for the Conference of Plenipotentiaries scheduled for 2028–2029, where a historic convention is expected to be negotiated.

In her role as Vice Chair, Ms. Sanyang will help guide an inclusive, transparent, and results-driven process, ensuring that the voices of all regions—particularly Africa—are central to the development of a strong, enforceable legal framework. The Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international cooperation, ending impunity, and enhancing national capacities for prevention, justice, and accountability.

This latest milestone reinforces The Gambia’s growing reputation as a champion of human rights, international justice, and the rule of law, proving that even small nations can lead boldly on the world’s biggest moral questions.

— MoFA