Hague Academy of International Law

The Hague Academy of International Law was established in 1923 with the support of the Carnegie Foundation, which also funded the Peace Palace. Its creation was inspired by the vision of Tobias Asser, a Dutch jurist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who advocated for a center to promote the study and development of international law. The Academy's first session took place in 1923, with lectures delivered by leading scholars such as James Brown Scott and Albert de Lapradelle. Since then, it has become a vital institution for the dissemination of international legal knowledge, particularly in the post-World War II era when international law expanded rapidly. The Academy operates under the supervision of a Curatorium, composed of distinguished jurists from various countries, ensuring its academic independence and international character.¹

The Academy offers two main types of courses: the summer courses in public and private international law, and the more advanced Diploma program. The summer courses, held in July and August, consist of lectures delivered by renowned professors and practitioners, covering a wide range of topics from treaty law to international arbitration. The Diploma program, introduced in 1950, is a rigorous course of study that includes examinations and a thesis, leading to a diploma that is highly regarded in the field. In addition, the Academy organizes the External Programme, which brings courses to different regions of the world, and the Centre for Studies and Research, which focuses on specific themes and produces scholarly publications. The Academy's library, housed in the Peace Palace, contains an extensive collection of international law materials, making it a key resource for researchers.²

The Hague Academy has played a significant role in shaping international law through its teaching and publications. Many of its alumni have gone on to become judges at the International Court of Justice, diplomats, and legal advisors to governments and international organizations. The Academy's courses have influenced the development of legal doctrines and have contributed to the harmonization of private international law. Its publications, including the Recueil des Cours (Collected Courses), are considered essential reading for scholars and practitioners. The Academy also fosters dialogue between different legal traditions, promoting a universal understanding of international law. Its location in The Hague, often called the 'International City of Peace and Justice,' enhances its prestige and its role in the global legal community.³

Beyond its well-known courses, the Hague Academy has several lesser-known facets. For instance, it awards a 'Diploma of the Hague Academy of International Law' that is distinct from a university degree and is highly selective, with only a handful of candidates receiving it each year. The Academy also has a tradition of publishing lectures in the Recueil des Cours, which now spans over 400 volumes, forming an invaluable archive of international legal thought. Additionally, the Academy's Curatorium includes members from diverse legal systems, ensuring a pluralistic approach. The Academy has also hosted special sessions on topics such as the law of the sea and international criminal law, reflecting evolving global concerns. Its library, although part of the Peace Palace, is open to the public and contains rare documents and manuscripts.

Curatorium

The governing board of the Hague Academy, composed of distinguished jurists from various countries.

Recueil des Cours

The collected courses of the Hague Academy, a major publication series in international law.

External Programme

A series of courses organized by the Academy in different regions of the world.