The international law seminar is not designed as an introductory course to international law. Applicants must demonstrate a solid understanding of international law, either through their postgraduate studies or substantial professional experience in the field. Twenty-five participants from various member states of the United Nations take part in the ILS. In addition to attending ILC meetings, participants are expected to actively engage in discussions following lectures delivered by members of the Commission, United Nations officials, or specialized agencies in Geneva, as well as other invited speakers.
Eligibility requirements
New applicants for this year must be aged between 24 and 38 as of January 1, 2024. This criterion will be strictly enforced. This year, the Selection Committee will choose 25 participants to join the Seminar.
participation
Participants will attend plenary meetings of the International Law Commission and lectures by its members, United Nations officials or specialized agencies, and professors from academic institutions in Geneva. They are expected to contribute actively to discussions following each lecture and produce brief reports within small working groups on topics on the Commission’s agenda.
The United Nations’ working languages are English, French, and Spanish. As simultaneous interpretation may not be available for all sessions, candidates must be proficient in at least two of these languages. All participants will have access to the United Nations Office at Geneva’s library and cyberspace.
Although participation in the Seminar is free, the United Nations cannot cover travel or subsistence costs for all participants. A limited number of fellowships will be available to participants from developing countries for travel and/or living expenses.
fellowships
Candidates can request a fellowship on the application form, providing justification in the letter of motivation. The Selection Committee will decide fellowship awards based on fund availability.
Fellowships awarded for subsistence
Upon arrival in Geneva, participants will receive an allowance to cover accommodation, meals, and other expenses. Participants must provide proof of accommodation to the Legal Office.
This allowance does not cover (and the United Nations is not responsible for) the following:
- Expenses for passport, visa, vaccination, and other miscellaneous items in the home country and related to travel
- Payment of any salary or related allowances from the participant’s current employer during the Seminar period
- Travel and other costs incurred by accompanying dependents.
- Costs related to travel and accident insurance, medical bills, and hospitalization.
- Compensation in the event of death or disability related to Seminar attendance.
Fellowships awarded for travel
Participants will receive a return air ticket to Geneva from their country of residence for the Seminar period (arrival the day before opening, return the day after closure). No payment will cover other routes or modes of transportation or extend beyond the specified period.
The issued ticket will be in economy class, and no changes to the reservation incurring additional expenses will be permitted.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) International Law Seminar
Source: OFA
