Advanced Legal Training at the Peace Palace, The Hague
The Codification Division of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 International Law Fellowship Programme.
This prestigious fellowship offers a unique opportunity for qualified professionals from developing countries and emerging economies to deepen their expertise in international law through high-level academic training and direct engagement with the legal work of the United Nations.
Program Overview
The Fellowship Programme is an intensive summer course held annually at the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. Participants benefit from a dual-track curriculum:
- UN Codification Division Lectures: Specialized seminars led by prominent international law scholars and practitioners from diverse legal systems.
- The Hague Academy of International Law: Attendance at the public international law session, a world-renowned forum for legal discourse.
Objectives & Impact
The program is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and the practical application of international law. It fosters a collaborative environment where participants can:
- Share regional experiences and exchange ideas on contemporary legal issues.
- Strengthen the legal capacity of government institutions and academic bodies in their home countries.
- Promote a wider appreciation of international law as mandated by General Assembly Resolution 80/163.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship is highly competitive, accommodating only 20 participants globally. It is specifically intended for:
- Government Officials (Legal officers, diplomats, and ministry advisors).
- Teachers of International Law from universities in developing countries or emerging economies.
Key Details
- Location: The Peace Palace, The Hague, Netherlands.
- Languages: The 2026 Programme is conducted in English and French.
- Format: Interactive lectures, seminars, and networking sessions.
Application Instructions
Prospective candidates must demonstrate a strong professional background in international law and a commitment to utilizing the training for the benefit of their home country.
The deadline for applications is 30 March 2026. Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Selection process
When selecting participants for the Fellowship Programme, due consideration is given to the candidates’ qualifications, to the scope of their professional duties, to the relevance of the training to their professional duties, geographical distribution and gender balance. Qualified female candidates are encouraged to apply.
Due consideration will also be given to candidates from Member States from which there has been no recent fellowship recipient for the International Law Fellowship Programme.
PLEASE NOTE THAT ONLY SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED.
📅 Application Deadline: 30 March 2026
