Application Deadline: 30 March 2026
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 edition of the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme. This prestigious Fellowship offers advanced training delivered by leading international law experts and practitioners, covering an extensive array of fundamental international law topics. The programme is designed to be highly interactive, enabling participants to exchange experiences and insights, fostering enhanced understanding and collaboration on current international law issues.
The Fellowship specifically targets qualified professionals—primarily government officials and educators specializing in international law—from developing nations and countries with emerging economies. Its objective is to strengthen their expertise in international law and provide deeper insight into the United Nations’ legal framework and activities. Each year, up to 20 participants from these countries are selected to take part in the programme.
Programme Overview
The Fellowship Programme is structured around an annual summer course held at the iconic Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. Participants engage in a series of lectures and seminars on international law, hosted both by the Codification Division of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs and the public international law session at The Hague Academy of International Law. The sessions led by the Codification Division feature distinguished international law scholars and practitioners representing diverse legal traditions and geographical regions. The entire programme is conducted in either English or French.
Course Format
The 2026 United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme spans three intensive weeks at the Peace Palace. Mornings are devoted to attending the public international law sessions at The Hague Academy of International Law, while afternoons feature lectures and seminars organized by the Codification Division. On certain days, the schedule includes Codification Division sessions both in the morning and afternoon, maximizing learning opportunities. The course is designed around interactive seminars and discussion groups, encouraging active participation and facilitating a robust exchange of perspectives among attendees. Participants are expected to contribute meaningfully to discussions on the comprehensive curriculum topics.
Details of the 2026 Fellowship
The upcoming 2026 Fellowship will take place from 29 June to 31 July 2026 at the Peace Palace in The Hague. The programme will be conducted exclusively in English this year. The Codification Division will cover a broad range of international law subjects during its seminars and lectures, including but not limited to:
- Foundations and principles of international law
- Treaty law and its implications
- State responsibility under international law
- International peace and security mechanisms
- Peaceful methods for resolving international disputes
- Diplomatic and consular law
- International human rights law
- International humanitarian law
- International criminal law
- Environmental law at the international level
- Law of the sea
- International trade law
- International investment law
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must possess a legal background complemented by professional experience in international law. Candidates need to confirm their availability for the entire duration of the Fellowship. Since the course in 2026 will be conducted in English, proficiency in both spoken and written English is mandatory. Applicants whose first language or language of instruction is not English must provide proof of their English proficiency through appropriate documentation—such as diplomas from courses taught in English, recognized language test certificates, or evidence of extensive professional use of English. Applications lacking valid language certification will not be considered.
What the Fellowship Covers
The Fellowship offers comprehensive financial support, covering economy-class airfare, accommodation, medical insurance, participation fees for the programme, all training materials, and the registration fee for the public international law session at The Hague Academy of International Law. Additionally, in line with United Nations fellowship policies, participants receive a stipend to assist with other living expenses while attending the programme.
There is also an option for self-funded applicants. These candidates are responsible for all expenses related to their participation, including travel, lodging, living costs, and registration fees. However, all self-funded participants will receive training materials free of charge.
How to Apply
To apply, candidates must complete the application form in English, ensuring all answers are clearly typed and detailed. If additional space is needed, supplementary pages may be attached. Incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified. The form must be accompanied by a “Letter of Transmission” signed by a senior official from the candidate’s sponsoring institution.
Applicants whose native language or academic instruction language is not English must include valid documentation proving their ability to participate fully in English-language lectures and seminars.
Completed applications should be submitted via email to: ilfp@un.org. Two versions of the application form are required:
- A scanned copy of the signed original (in PDF or JPG format)
- An electronic editable version (MS Word or equivalent)
For more comprehensive details and access to the application materials, please Visit the Official Webpage of the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme.
