The International Law Commission stresses the importance it attaches to the International Law Seminar, which enables young lawyers, especially those from developing countries, to familiarize themselves with the work of the Commission and the activities of the many international organizations based in Geneva. Over the past six decades, the International Law Seminar has welcomed 1,397 participants from 180 countries, creating a truly global forum for learning and dialogue.
A defining feature of the Seminar is its commitment to inclusiveness and geographical diversity. While participation in the Seminar is free of charge, the cost of travelling to and staying in Geneva can be a significant obstacle for many qualified candidates, particularly those from developing countries. To help overcome these barriers, the United Nations Trust Fund for the International Law Seminar provides financial assistance to selected participants.
Member States Support
Thanks to the continued support of Member States, the Trust Fund has enabled 843 participants, representing more than 60 per cent of all Seminar participants, to attend the programme. This support has been essential in ensuring that participation remains accessible to candidates from all regions of the world, regardless of their financial circumstances. The importance of this assistance is reflected in the Seminar's budget. Over the last decade, approximately 76 per cent of the Seminar’s budget has been allocated to participant stipends, 23 per cent to personnel costs and programme coordination, and 1 per cent to hospitality expenses. The stipends themselves are primarily intended to cover participants' living expenses in Geneva and, where necessary, their travel costs.
By supporting the Trust Fund, Member States help preserve one of the Seminar's defining strengths: its global character. Their contributions ensure that participation is based on merit and potential rather than financial means, allowing students, scholars, government officials, and young practitioners from diverse backgrounds to contribute to the Seminar's exchange of ideas and experiences.
The United Nations Office at Geneva expresses its gratitude to the Member States that have contributed to the Trust Fund in recent years, including Austria, China, Cyprus, Finland, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Mexico, Portugal, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Their contributions have played a vital role in maintaining the Seminar's longstanding tradition of broad geographical representation and inclusive participation.
