ISA headquarters building in Kingston, Jamaica

Internal justice

Joint Appeals Board

The first tier of ISA’s two-tier internal justice system, providing a neutral forum for reviewing administrative decisions that are contested by both current and former ISA staff members.

Overview

What is the Joint Appeals Board?

The Joint Appeals Board (JAB) is an independent entity established by the International Seabed Authority (ISA) under Article XI of the Staff Regulations and Chapter XI of the Staff Rules. It functions as the first tier of ISA’s two-tier internal justice system, providing a neutral forum for reviewing administrative decisions that are contested by both current and former ISA staff members.

The JAB examines appeals filed by staff members who allege the administrative decisions made by the Administration violates their employment contracts or contravenes the Staff Regulations and Rules of the Authority. Typically, a panel of three members adjudicates the appeal and renders a written judgment on the case.

Should staff members wish to contest the JAB’s Judgment, they may file an application to the United Nations Appeals Tribunal, which represents the second and final tier in the ISA’s internal justice framework, in accordance with Staff Rule 11.3.

Two-tier internal justice system

How an appeal moves

1
Step 1

An administrative decision is contested

  • Current and former ISA staff members may contest administrative decisions
  • The appeal alleges a violation of the employment contract or of the Staff Regulations and Rules of the Authority
2
Step 2

Joint Appeals Board — first tier

  • Typically, a panel of three members adjudicates the appeal
  • The panel renders a written judgment on the case
3
Step 3

United Nations Appeals Tribunal — second and final tier

  • Staff members who wish to contest the JAB’s Judgment may file an application
  • In accordance with Staff Rule 11.3

Documents

Judgements, orders and rules

Judgements

Browse adjudicated appeals & rendered judgements.

Judgements

Orders

Access official procedural orders for ongoing and finalized cases.

Orders

Revised Rules of Procedure

Adopted in March 2025

The JAB operates in accordance with its Revised Rules of Procedure, which were adopted in March 2025. These rules apply to all pending and new appeals, ensuring consistency and fairness in the review process.

Contact Us

International Seabed Authority, Kingston, Jamaica

14 - 20 Port Royal Street, Kingston, Jamaica · Phone: +1 (876) 922-9105