Are you a junior or mid-level government official or researcher passionate about maritime law and dispute settlement? The ITLOS-Nippon Foundation Capacity-Building and Training Programme offers a unique, fully funded opportunity to deepen your expertise in the law of the sea under UNCLOS, right at the heart of international maritime law in Hamburg, Germany. This prestigious nine-month fellowship is designed for professionals from developing countries seeking to advance their legal skills and gain hands-on experience in international dispute resolution.
About the ITLOS-Nippon Foundation Capacity-Building and Training Programme
- Host Country: Germany
- Duration: 9 months (full-time)
- Dates: July 2026 – March 2027
- Benefits: All costs covered, including travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and a monthly allowance
- Deadline: Applications typically open in January or February each year; check the official ITLOS website for the latest updates.
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Financial Benefits
This fellowship is fully funded by the Nippon Foundation and covers:
- Round-trip travel to Hamburg, Germany
- Accommodation throughout the programme
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- Monthly living allowance
- Participation in study visits to key international institutions across Europe
- Access to exclusive lectures, workshops, and research resources
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Program Theme
The ITLOS-Nippon Foundation Programme focuses on dispute settlement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Participants engage in a wide array of lectures and workshops covering:
- Mechanisms for dispute settlement under UNCLOS
- International environmental law and maritime law
- Conflict resolution, negotiation, and mediation
- Practical training for proceedings before international courts and tribunals
- Research on current issues in the law of the sea, maritime delimitation, fisheries management, marine biodiversity, and more
The programme also includes a four-week Summer Academy and study visits to leading institutions such as the International Court of Justice, European Commission, and the International Maritime Organization.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open mainly to applicants from developing countries
- Age: 25–40 years old
- Background:
- Junior to mid-level government officials or researchers
- Currently working on issues related to the law of the sea, maritime law, or dispute settlement
- Must hold a first university degree in law
- Requirements:
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research
- Excellent knowledge of English or French (with working knowledge of the other language)
- Nomination by a relevant governmental body or academic institute
- Submission of a research topic relevant to UNCLOS implementation
- Medical and travel permission certificates upon acceptance
How to Apply for the ITLOS-Nippon Foundation Capacity-Building and Training Programme?
To apply, candidates must complete the official Fellowship Application Form and secure a nomination from their employer or academic institution. Required documents include the application form, nomination form, and, upon conditional acceptance, medical and travel permission certificates. Applications are usually accepted via email, fax, or post. For detailed instructions and to access the application forms, visit the official ITLOS website or contact the Programme Coordinator at training@itlos.org.
Yasir is currently a master’s student at Bilkent University on a fully funded scholarship. He has a strong passion for technology, innovation, and creating meaningful impact through digital platforms. Yasir’s goal is to make education more accessible by helping students discover global opportunities and take confident steps toward their future.