The United Nations Fellowship in International Law for African Professionals gives qualified legal professionals from Africa an opportunity to deepen their understanding of international law and learn more about the legal work of the United Nations. The programme is particularly relevant to government officials, international law lecturers and other professionals whose work involves international legal matters.
Organised by the Codification Division of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs, the Regional Course combines intensive academic training with interactive discussions led by experienced international law scholars and practitioners. Participants have the opportunity to strengthen their knowledge, examine important legal issues and gain insights from experts working in the field of international law.
A limited number of fully funded fellowships are normally offered to selected candidates to cover eligible participation costs. African legal professionals who meet the programme requirements should review the eligibility criteria, application instructions and deadline carefully before applying. The fellowship can provide valuable academic and professional exposure for those seeking to expand their expertise in international law.
SUMMARY:
- Fellowship Sponsor(s): United Nations
- Host Organisation: UN Office of Legal Affairs
- Programme Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Funding Type: Fully Funded Fellowship
- Number of Participants: Up to 30
- Programme Level: Professional Training
- Eligible Nationality: UN Member States belonging to the African Group
Programme Overview
The United Nations Regional Courses in International Law are organised under the UN Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law.
The programme enables qualified professionals, particularly government officials and teachers of international law from developing countries and emerging economies, to deepen their knowledge of international law and the legal work of the United Nations.
Training covers a broad range of international law topics and is delivered through interactive seminars and discussions. Participants who successfully complete the entire course receive a certificate.
The African Regional Course is organised in cooperation with the Government of Ethiopia, African Union and United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and is normally held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the United Nations Regional Course in International Law for Africa, applicants should:
- Have a legal background with professional experience in international law.
- Be fluent in the language in which the particular course is conducted.
- Be able to attend and participate in the entire duration of the course.
- Be a citizen of a United Nations Member State that is also a member of the African Group.
Selection also considers applicants’ qualifications, professional responsibilities, the relevance of the training to their work and gender balance. Qualified female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.
Fellowship Benefits
Candidates selected to receive a fellowship are provided with:
- Economy-class travel expenses.
- Accommodation during the programme.
- Medical insurance.
- Training materials.
- A modest stipend to cover other living expenses.
A limited number of places may also be available for self-funded participants, who are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, medical insurance and living expenses.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted using the official application form provided by the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs whenever a new application cycle opens.
Interested applicants should:
- Visit the official United Nations Regional Course in International Law for Africa webpage and check the current application status.
- Download and complete the application form provided for the relevant programme year.
- Provide all required personal, educational and professional information.
- Prepare and attach the supporting documents specified in the application instructions.
- Ensure the application is complete and submitted according to the instructions provided by the United Nations before the stated deadline.
Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline are not considered. The United Nations also does not charge an application or selection fee.
Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the completed application form and the supporting documents specified for the relevant application cycle.
Additional documentation may be required depending on the language and requirements of the particular year’s course. Applicants should therefore follow the instructions published with the current application form.
Application Deadline: Anticipate 2027 application soon.
The 2026 Regional Course in International Law for Africa has already been completed. Prospective applicants should monitor the official United Nations webpage for the announcement of the next application cycle.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.