The "Volga" Case (Russian Federation v. Australia), Prompt Release

On 2 December 2002, an Application under article 292 of the Convention was filed by the Russian Federation against Australia for the release of the vessel Volga, flying the flag of the Russian Federation. The Application was entered in the list of cases as Case No. 11.

On 7 December 2002, the Government of Australia filed its Statement in Response.

By Order dated 2 December 2002, the President fixed 12 and 13 December 2002 as the dates for the hearing.

On 4 December 2002, Australia nominated Ivan Shearer AM, as judge ad hoc. Mr Shearer was admitted to participate in the proceedings, after having made a solemn declaration in relation to the case at a public sitting on 11 December 2002.

Prior to the opening of the hearing, the Tribunal held initial deliberations on 11 December 2002.

Oral statements were presented at four public sittings held on 12 and 13 December 2002. In their concluding statements, the representatives of the parties read their final submissions.

On 23 December 2002, the Tribunal delivered its Judgment in the case.