[Summer programme] International criminal law and international legal & comparative approaches to counter-terrorism

The Asser Institute and the War Crimes Research Office of American University’s Washington College of Law are pleased to announce that registrations are open for the 19th Annual Summer Law Programme on International Criminal Law and International Legal & Comparative Approaches to Counter-Terrorism.

This thought-provoking programme, which will be held at the Asser Institute’s premises in The Hague, from 26 May to 20 June 2025, is designed to provide students and early-career professionals with a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in international criminal law and the legal aspects of counter-terrorism. 

For whom?
Students and early-career professionals who are interested in studying international criminal law and/or the legal aspects of counter-terrorism.

Speakers:
This course brings together high-profile experts from international organisations and tribunals, as well as from leading law faculties and other organisations. 

The summer law programme will be divided into two parts: 

Part one: International Criminal Law (26 May - 06 June, Fee €995)

• Explore the past, present, and future of international criminal law (ICL)
• Examine the definitions and evolution of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide
• Gain a thorough understanding of victim participation and reparations
• Analyse state responsibility in international criminal law
• Learn about the roles of the International Criminal Court and other tribunals
• Delve into individual criminal and command responsibility
• Grasp the concept of universal jurisdiction and prosecuting international crimes domestically (Read more)

In two weeks, you will explore the past, present and future of international criminal law (ICL). ICL helps to ensure accountability for the most serious crimes, such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. These crimes have a profound impact on individuals, communities, and entire societies, and it is important to hold those who commit them accountable for their actions.

Part two: International Legal & Comparative Approaches to Counter-Terrorism (09 - 20 June, Fee €995)

• Delve into the definitions of terrorism and counter-terrorism
• Analyse the evolution of these concepts since 9/11
• Examine the jus ad bellum and jus in bello aspects of counter-terrorism
• Explore the role of human rights law in combating terrorism
• Investigate the use of armed drones and extraordinary renditions
• Delve into national and international prosecutions of terrorism
• Examine the phenomenon of foreign terrorist fighters (Read more)

The second part of the summer programme focuses on various international legal & comparative approaches to counter-terrorism. The course will begin by looking into the definitions of terrorism and counter-terrorism, and their evolution since 9/11. You will explore the jus ad bellum and jus in bello in counter-terrorism. We will also look at the role of human rights law, including case studies on the use of armed drones and extraordinary renditions.

Other topics include: (inter)national prosecution, foreign fighters, the role of intelligence in court, countering violent extremism, and rehabilitation and reintegration of foreign fighters. 

The fee for the full programme (26 May - 20 June) is € 1.895
In addition to lectures and seminars, the programme will include study visits to (inter)national courts and legal institutions located in The Hague, such as

• International Commission on Missing Persons
• Eurojust
• UN Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals (MICT)
• International Court of Justice (ICJ)
• Kosovo Specialist Chambers (KSC)
• International Criminal Court (ICC)
• The Hague Court of Appeal

You will also have the opportunity to attend hearings and proceedings at these institutions, and to network with other professionals in the field.

Registration and questions
Please read the registration terms & conditions carefully before registration. 

Contact
For more information or questions, please contact educationtraining@asser.nl.