About the opportunity
The United Nations Regional Course in International Law for Africa is an intensive training program designed to enable qualified legal professionals, particularly government officials and teachers of law, to deepen their knowledge of international law. Organized by the Codification Division of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs in cooperation with the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the course provides a high-level curriculum covering various aspects of international law. The 2027 edition will be held in person at the facilities of the Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 15 March to 7 April 2027. The program is conducted entirely in English and accommodates up to 30 participants.
Funding and benefits
- Comprehensive training in international law delivered by international experts
- Networking opportunities with legal professionals from across the African region
- Access to UN legal resources and documentation
- Limited number of spaces available for self-funded participants alongside fully-funded fellowships
Who can apply?
- Legal professionals, including government officials and law teachers
- Must be proficient in English, as the course is conducted in English
- Must be able to attend the full duration of the course in Addis Ababa
- Applicants must demonstrate a professional or academic background relevant to international law
Required documents
- Completed official application form
- Supporting documentation as specified in the application form
When to apply
- Application deadline: 30 October 2026
How to apply
- Download the official application form from the UN website
- Complete the form in English
- Submit the application according to the instructions provided on the official website before the deadline
Additional information
- The course is held in person at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- The program is part of the United Nations Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for government legal advisors or academics specializing in international law who seek to enhance their practical expertise.
- Excellent for professionals looking to engage directly with UN legal frameworks and regional African legal cooperation.
- Well-suited for individuals who thrive in intensive, short-term, in-person collaborative learning environments.
What should you think carefully about?
- The program is highly intensive and requires full-time commitment for the entire duration from 15 March to 7 April 2027.
- Applicants should be prepared for a competitive selection process, as the course is limited to 30 participants.
- While some participants are fully funded, others may need to secure their own funding to attend as self-funded participants.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This course is a premier opportunity for legal professionals to gain specialized knowledge and international exposure without the commitment of a long-term degree program. It serves as a significant career milestone for those working in public international law, providing both technical training and a platform for professional networking within the UN system.
Our take
Legal professionals and academics in Africa with a strong focus on international law should prioritize this application. It is a prestigious and highly relevant program for those aiming to influence legal policy or teaching in their home countries. Those unable to commit to the full three-week in-person schedule in Addis Ababa should not apply.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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