Gain hands-on experience in international law with the ICJ Judicial Fellowship Programme 2025-2026. Apply by February 5, 2025.
Introduction
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) offers a unique opportunity for recent law graduates to immerse themselves in public international law through the prestigious Judicial Fellowship Programme.
Launched in 1999, the program allows young legal minds to work closely with judges at the ICJ, deepening their understanding of international law and judicial processes.
This year’s application deadline for the 2025-2026 term is February 5, 2025. Law graduates interested in advancing their career with global impact are encouraged to apply.
Required Documents for Application
Universities must submit the following documents on behalf of each candidate:
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Official Nomination Letter | Endorsement from the university nominating the candidate. |
| ICJ Personal History Form | A completed form detailing the candidate’s professional and educational background. |
| Letters of Reference | At least two letters supporting the candidate’s application and qualifications. |
| Official Academic Records | Verified copies of the candidate’s academic transcripts. |
| Writing Sample | A recent academic or professional writing sample showcasing the candidate’s legal research skills. |
| Candidate Profile Summary | A concise profile table summarizing key candidate information. |
Key Details
- Programme Name: ICJ Judicial Fellowship Programme
- Duration: Approximately 10 months (early September to June of the following year)
- Application Deadline: February 5, 2025
- Focus: Hands-on experience in international law
Benefits of the ICJ Judicial Fellowship Programme
- Direct Legal Experience: Fellows engage in full-time work at the ICJ under the mentorship of a Court Member, performing research, drafting memorandums, and assisting with cases.
- Exposure to Judicial Procedures: Participants attend hearings, sittings, and engage in various judicial activities, enhancing their understanding of international law.
- Cultural and Professional Development: Fellows work alongside a diverse group of legal professionals, broadening their perspectives and building professional networks.
- Trust Fund Support: Eligible candidates from developing countries may receive fellowship awards funded by the ICJ Trust Fund.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Judicial Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Candidates must be 31 years old or younger at the start of the fellowship. Special circumstances may permit a waiver of this requirement.
- Academic Excellence: Candidates should have outstanding academic records in legal studies, with a demonstrated interest in public international law.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French (written and oral) is required. Knowledge of the other language is advantageous.
- Nomination by University: Only universities may nominate candidates. Universities are encouraged to propose more than one candidate.
How to Apply for the ICJ Judicial Fellowship Programme
- University Pre-screening: The university completes an online pre-screening questionnaire, designating a focal point to manage the application.
- Focal Point Confirmation: Upon submission, the focal point will receive instructions, the ICJ personal history form, and the candidate profile summary table.
- Document Submission: The focal point collects the six required documents (in the specified order) and emails them to the ICJ on behalf of each candidate.
Note: The ICJ does not accept applications directly from individuals. All applications must be submitted through an authorized university representative.
Trust Fund Support for Developing Countries
In support of equitable access to the fellowship, the United Nations General Assembly established a Trust Fund in 2021.
This fund offers financial awards exclusively to applicants from developing countries nominated by universities within those regions.
This initiative broadens the reach of the ICJ fellowship, encouraging candidates from diverse linguistic and geographical backgrounds to apply.
Conclusion
The ICJ Judicial Fellowship Programme provides invaluable experience for emerging legal professionals interested in public international law.
By offering hands-on exposure to the ICJ’s proceedings, the fellowship nurtures a deeper understanding of international judicial processes, broadens cultural perspectives, and supports a commitment to global justice.
Law graduates passionate about contributing to the legal field on a global scale are encouraged to consider this prestigious opportunity.
FAQs
1. What is the duration of the ICJ Judicial Fellowship Programme?
The fellowship lasts approximately 10 months, from early September to June of the following year.
2. Who can apply for the ICJ Judicial Fellowship?
Only candidates nominated by universities can apply. Individual applications are not accepted by the ICJ.
3. What is the age limit for candidates?
Candidates should be 31 or younger at the start of the fellowship, though exceptions may be made in special cases.
4. Are there financial support options for candidates from developing countries?
Yes, the ICJ Trust Fund provides fellowship awards for candidates from developing countries who meet eligibility requirements.
5. What language proficiency is required?
Candidates must be proficient in either English or French, with knowledge of the other language as an added advantage.