From 3 to 29 January 2023, the Director of the European University Institute of Law, Ioseb Kelenjeridze, participated in a study visit to the Hague Academy of International Law. The programme aimed to enhance advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in public international law, while also providing an opportunity to exchange academic experience with internationally recognised experts and plan future collaborative initiatives.

The Hague Academy, founded in 1923 and located in the historic Peace Palace, is one of the world’s most distinguished centres for the study of international law. Each year it brings together around one hundred international law specialists, researchers and public policy professionals from different parts of the world. Its academic programmes enjoy broad recognition among leading international universities and are delivered by professors from Europe’s top institutions, experts from international organisations and members of the diplomatic community.

During the visit, participants engaged in discussions with judges of the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. The programme also included meetings with senior representatives of the European Union and various European states, focusing on key challenges in the development of international law, ongoing institutional reforms and the legal aspects of current geopolitical processes.

As part of the visit, official meetings were held at the diplomatic missions of France, Canada, Georgia and Israel. These meetings explored prospects for cooperation in foreign policy, legal collaboration and educational initiatives, as well as possibilities for joint projects and internship programmes.

Following the successful completion of the intensive special course in public international law, participants received certificates during an official ceremony. Certification at the Hague Academy is awarded on the basis of examinations and is regarded as a mark of high professional competence.