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

neurotech image News

Human Rights Concerns in Neurotechnology Examined in New Research Brief

15 April 2025

Our research brief 'Neurotechnology - Integrating Human Rights in Regulation' examines the human rights challenges posed by the rapid development of neurotechnology.

Read more

Equality and Non Discrimination Book Cover News

Legal Understandings of Equality and Non-Discrimination Examined in New Publication

21 August 2025

Our new publication, Equality and Non-Discrimination, brings together cutting-edge scholarship on one of the most fundamental principles of international human rights law.

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

10-14 November 2025

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

Panel Discussion: Project

Treaty Body Members’ Platform

Started in January 2014

The Treaty Body Members’ Platform connects experts in UN treaty bodies with each other as well as with Geneva-based practitioners, academics and diplomats to share expertise, exchange views on topical questions and develop synergies.

Read more

Neutrotechology Project

Neurotechnology and Human Rights

Started in August 2023

This project addresses the human rights implications stemming from the development of neurotechnology for commercial, non-therapeutic ends, and is based on a partnership between the Geneva Academy, the Geneva University Neurocentre and the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee. 

Read more

Cover of the 2023 Geneva Academy Annual Report Publication

Annual Report 2024

published on July 2025

Read more