Reviewed case brief

Minquiers and Ecrehos Case (France v United Kingdom)

ICJ Reports 1953, p 47

## Summary

PILterritorial-sovereigntyeffective-administrationhistorical-title
Court
International Court of Justice
Year
1953
Subjects
Public International Law
Reviewed
2026-06-18

Rule established

When both parties rely on ancient historical title, the court prefers the party demonstrating actual exercise of effective sovereignty in modern times through administrative and judicial acts.

Facts

    Issues

      Held

        Ratio decidendi

        How to use it in an exam

        Editorial source

        ICJ Reports 1953, p 47; verified via ICJ database

        Educational summary only. Read the reported judgment or an authorised law report before relying on the case professionally.