Exploring IHL and Human Rights: Our LLM Students' Journey to Armenia

13 October 2023

In July, students enrolled in our LLM in International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights embarked on a week-long study trip to Armenia. This study trip, organized by our dedicated students offered a unique opportunity to witness the practical application of legal principles discussed in class and engage with professionals working in the fields of IHL and human rights.

Learning More about the Situation in Nagorno-Karabakh

During their visit, the LLM students held meaningful discussions with prominent figures in Armenia, such as the General Prosecutor and the Human Rights Defender. They also met with local non-governmental organizations and foundations, the Swiss Ambassador to Armenia, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and the International Committee of the Red Cross. These encounters provided invaluable insights into the region's challenges, the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh, and the related cases before the International Court of Justice and the European Court of Human Rights.

‘In light of today’s situation, this study trip must have a particular resonance with our students who are now much better placed to understand the situation and the protection frameworks that apply in this context’ explains our Head of Education Dr Clotilde Pégorier.

‘This is a very strong reminder that the legal concepts we examine in classes are not abstract and have very concrete implications’ she adds.

Immersing in the Rich Culture of Armenia

The study trip also served as a remarkable opportunity for our students to immerse themselves in Armenian culture and explore historical landmarks, including visits to the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial and the Armenian Genocide Museum.

MORE ON THIS THEMATIC AREA

News

Third Season of ‘In and Around War(s)’ Launches with Episode on Weaponizing of Water

2 May 2024

Our podcast In and Around War(s) returns for a third season with the first episode discussing the weaponization of water.

Read more

Artwork: ‘PɇaceMaker’ by Goin News

Our 2023 Annual Report

8 July 2024

Our Annual Report provides an overview of the activity of the Geneva Academy in 2023.

Read more

A general view of participants during of the 33nd ordinary session of the Human Rights Council. Training

The Universal Periodic Review and the UN Human Rights System: Raising the Bar on Accountability

11-15 November 2024

This training course will explore the origin and evolution of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) and its functioning in Geneva and will focus on the nature of implementation of the UPR recommendations at the national level.

Read more

Garment workersto receive food from their factory during lunch time. This food is freely provided by their factory in order to ensure that workers eat healthy and hygienic food. Training

Business and Human Rights

2-6 September 2024

This training course will examine how the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights have been utilized to advance the concept of business respect for human rights throughout the UN system, the impact of the Guiding Principles on other international organizations, as well as the impact of standards and guidance developed by these different bodies.

Read more

Project

Follow-up Review Pilot Series

Started in November 2021

Read more

Online folders Project

Digital Human Rights Tracking Tools and Databases

Started in March 2023

This initiative wishes to contribute to better and more coordinated implementation, reporting and follow-up of international human rights recommendations through a global study on digital human rights tracking tools and databases.

Read more

Cover of the 2023 Geneva Academy Annual Report Publication

Annual Report 2023

published on July 2024

Read more