African lawyers working in international law can apply for a fully funded place on one of the UN’s leading training programmes. The 2027 United Nations Regional Course in International Law for Africa runs for about three and a half weeks in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It brings together up to 30 government lawyers, diplomats and legal professionals from across the continent, who learn from leading international law scholars and practitioners. Applications close on 30 October 2026, so there isn’t much time left.
Key Facts
- Organisers: The Codification Division of the UN Office of Legal Affairs, with the Government of Ethiopia, the African Union and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA)
- Dates: 15 March to 7 April 2027
- Venue: In person at ECA facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Language: English (the 2026 edition was taught in French)
- Places: Up to 30 participants, including a small number of self-funded places
- Application fee: None
- Deadline: 30 October 2026
About the Course
The Regional Courses in International Law are part of the UN Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law. They aim to build international law expertise in developing regions. The Africa course is taught intensively and covers both core areas of international law and topics of particular importance to the African region.
Past editions have covered areas such as:
- The law of treaties and the role of the United Nations
- Peaceful settlement of international disputes
- International human rights and humanitarian law
- International criminal law
- The law of the sea and international environmental law
- International trade and investment law
- The African Union legal framework and regional integration
The final list of subjects for 2027 is set by the organisers. Check the official brochure for the confirmed programme.
What the Fellowship Covers
Most participants receive a UN fellowship, which covers:
- Return travel to Addis Ababa
- Accommodation and meals
- Medical insurance
- Training materials
- A modest stipend for other living costs during the course
There are also a few self-funded places. Self-funded participants receive training materials free of charge but pay for everything else themselves, including travel, insurance, accommodation and daily expenses.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered, you should:
- Be a national of a UN Member State that belongs to the African Group
- Have a legal background and professional experience in international law
- Be fluent in English
- Be able to attend the full course from start to finish. Successful candidates have to confirm this in writing.
How Candidates Are Selected
The selection panel looks at:
- Your qualifications
- Your current professional responsibilities
- How relevant the course is to your day-to-day work
- Gender balance across the group. The UN particularly encourages women to apply.
Tip: In your application, explain how you use international law in your current role, for example in treaty negotiations, legal advice to a ministry, litigation or teaching, and how you will put the training to use. Candidates who can show a clear link between the course and their job are usually in a stronger position.
How to Apply
- Go to the official application page on the UN Office of Legal Affairs website.
- Download the application form (Word format, English only) and read the course brochure.
- Fill in the form carefully and submit it as described on the official page, before 30 October 2026.
Apply on the official UN website
Beware of scams: The United Nations never charges a fee at any stage of the application or selection process, and it never asks applicants for bank account details. If anyone asks you for money or banking information in connection with this course, it is a scam.
