The United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme 2026 offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for qualified professionals to deepen their expertise in international law. Organised by the Codification Division of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs, under the United Nations Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law, this annual summer course is held at the iconic Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands.
Programme Overview
The Fellowship Programme delivers high-quality training from prominent international law scholars and practitioners. It covers a wide range of core topics in international law and includes attendance at the public international law session of The Hague Academy of International Law.
The interactive format encourages participants to share experiences and exchange ideas, fostering greater understanding and cooperation on contemporary international legal issues. It is designed especially for qualified professionals—particularly government officials and teachers of international law—from developing countries and countries with emerging economies.
Key Details for 2026
- Dates: 29 June to 31 July 2026 (approximately six weeks).
- Location: Peace Palace, The Hague, the Netherlands.
- Language: The programme will be conducted in English. Fluency in spoken and written English is required. (Applicants whose mother tongue or language of instruction is not English must provide proof of language proficiency.)
- Participants: Up to 20 fellows, primarily from developing countries and emerging economies.
- Format: In-person lectures, seminars, and interactive sessions.
Course Content
Participants will engage with essential topics in international law, including (but not limited to):
- Introduction to international law
- Treaty law
- International responsibility
- International peace and security
- Peaceful settlement of international disputes
- Diplomatic and consular law
- International human rights law
- International humanitarian law
- International criminal law
- International environmental law
- Law of the sea
- International trade law
- International investment law
Additional sessions are provided through The Hague Academy of International Law.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must:
- Have a legal background with professional experience in international law.
- Be fluent in English (spoken and written).
- Be able to attend the full programme without exception.
- Come from developing countries or countries with emerging economies (priority given to government officials, teachers of international law, and similar professionals).
Note: Current United Nations staff are generally not eligible for fellowships but may be considered on a self-funded basis in exceptional cases.
Benefits for Fellowship Recipients
Selected fellows receive comprehensive support, including:
- Economy-class return air travel from their country of residence to The Hague.
- Accommodation.
- Meals.
- Medical insurance.
- Training materials.
- Registration fee for The Hague Academy sessions.
- A modest stipend to cover other living expenses (in line with United Nations fellowship policies, sufficient for a decent standard of living).
All participants (including self-funded) receive training materials and a certificate upon full completion.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the official website: Go to https://legal.un.org/poa/ilfp/index.html for the latest details, brochure, and forms.
- Complete the application form:
- The form is in English only and must be typewritten.
- It consists of two parts:
- Part 1: Complete electronically via the online form (link available on the site, e.g., https://forms.office.com/e/hbDMcxMQPQ).
- Part 2: Fill out the downloadable MS Word document (application_form_ilfp_2026_e.docx from the site).
- Provide clear, detailed answers. Include required supporting documents (e.g., proof of English proficiency if applicable).
- Prepare two versions of Part 2:
- One scanned copy of the signed original (PDF or JPG).
- One electronic MS Word version (or equivalent).
- Submit your application:
- Send both versions by email to: [email protected].
- Name files clearly, e.g., “[Last Name], [First Name] – ILFP 2026”.
- Your sponsoring institution or government may need to complete certain sections, but you submit directly.
- Deadline: 30 March 2026. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
- Selection: Based on qualifications, experience, and geographical balance. Successful candidates will be notified accordingly.