International Conference on International Law and Governance (ICILG)
The International Conference on International Law and Governance (ICILG) is an academic event focused on the evolving landscape of international legal frameworks and their impact on global governance. Hosted in Amsterdam, NLD, this conference serves as a platform for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to discuss contemporary challenges and advancements in international law. The event aims to foster dialogue and collaboration on critical issues shaping the international order.
Committees & topics
Why it matters
In an era marked by complex global challenges, from climate change to geopolitical tensions, the role of international law and effective governance mechanisms has never been more critical. This conference provides a vital forum for examining how international legal principles are applied, interpreted, and adapted to address these pressing issues. Discussions at ICILG can influence academic discourse, inform policy decisions, and contribute to the development of more robust and equitable global governance structures.
The insights generated from such gatherings are essential for understanding the intricate interplay between national sovereignty and international obligations. As states navigate a multipolar world, the principles of international law offer a framework for cooperation and conflict resolution. The conference's focus on governance highlights the practical application of these laws, emphasizing the need for effective institutions and mechanisms to ensure compliance and promote stability. The outcomes of these discussions can therefore have far-reaching implications for international relations and global stability.
How to prepare
Delegates preparing for the ICILG should focus on understanding the current debates surrounding the enforcement and evolution of international law. A strong grasp of key international legal instruments and the challenges to their implementation will be beneficial. Consider how different states interpret and adhere to international norms, and be prepared to discuss case studies that illustrate both successes and failures in global governance.
To maximize engagement, participants should research the specific areas of international law that are most relevant to their interests or academic focus. Understanding the perspectives of various international actors, including states, international organizations, and non-state actors, will be crucial for constructive dialogue. Employing frameworks like "Engagement Strategies" and "Dynamic Analysis" can help in preparing for discussions on complex legal and political issues. Additionally, reviewing materials related to "Hidden Stakeholders" can provide a nuanced understanding of the various actors influencing international legal outcomes.
Country perspectives
Where the most-relevant 4 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile.
NetherlandsAs the host nation, NLD often champions international law and institutions, providing a neutral ground for legal discourse.
Role in topic
NLD is home to several international legal bodies, including the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice, making it a natural hub for discussions on international law and governance.
United StatesThe USA's stance on international law is often characterized by a balance between adherence to treaties and the assertion of national interests.
Role in topic
The USA plays a significant role in shaping international law through its economic and military influence, as well as its participation in various international agreements and organizations.
ChinaCHN's approach to international law emphasizes state sovereignty and non-interference, while increasingly engaging with global governance structures.
Role in topic
As a rising global power, CHN's interpretation and application of international law, particularly in areas like trade and maritime disputes, have significant implications for global governance.
RussiaRUS often prioritizes national security and sovereignty in its interpretation of international law, sometimes challenging Western-led legal norms.
Role in topic
RUS's actions on the international stage, particularly concerning territorial integrity and intervention, frequently spark debates about the efficacy and enforceability of international law.
Topics & background
The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it.
The Interaction of International Law and Politics
Key players
- United States
Architect of the post-1945 order; increasingly selective in treaty participation.
- China
Promotes a state-centric vision of international law and UN-centered multilateralism.
- Russia
Permanent Security Council member whose Ukraine war has tested core legal norms.
United KingdomInfluential common-law tradition and active in international courts and tribunals.
FranceCivil-law tradition, strong advocate for multilateral institutions and the ICC.
IndiaLeading Global South voice pushing for reform of legal and political institutions.
Foundations and Future of International Law
Key players
- Netherlands
Host to the ICJ, ICC, and PCA; central to international legal architecture.
- United States
Major shaper and occasional outlier in treaty regimes.
- China
Rising codifier of norms, particularly in trade, cyber, and maritime law.
- Russia
Increasingly revisionist actor challenging post-1945 legal frameworks.
GermanyStrong proponent of rules-based order and universal jurisdiction.
BrazilInfluential voice for Global South perspectives on legal reform.
Public International Law
Key players
- Netherlands
Seat of the principal organs of public international law.
SwitzerlandDepositary for the Geneva Conventions; host to numerous UN bodies.
- United States
Influential litigant and norm-shaper in ICJ and treaty practice.
- Russia
Tests core doctrines on use of force and territorial integrity.
- China
Increasingly active in shaping interpretations of sovereignty and non-intervention.
South AfricaRecent high-profile ICJ litigant (Genocide Convention case) advancing Global South claims.
The Law of Treaties
Key players
AustriaHost of the Vienna negotiations and a major depositary state.
- United States
Non-party to the VCLT but accepts much of it as custom; frequent treaty withdrawer.
- Russia
Has withdrawn from multiple key treaties in recent years.
- China
Active treaty negotiator, particularly in trade, investment, and BRI agreements.
- United Kingdom
Major treaty practice including post-Brexit renegotiations.
- France
Strong proponent of multilateral treaty regimes and depositary functions.
The Law of the Sea
Key players
- China
Asserts expansive maritime claims; rejected the 2016 South China Sea ruling.
- United States
Non-party to UNCLOS but conducts freedom of navigation operations.
PhilippinesSuccessful claimant in the 2016 South China Sea arbitration.
- Russia
Key Arctic claimant with extensive continental shelf submissions.
NorwayLeading Arctic coastal state and pioneer in seabed governance.
JapanMajor maritime power with disputes in East China Sea and active in ITLOS.
International Criminal Law
Key players
- Netherlands
Host state of the ICC and prior ad hoc tribunals.
- United States
Non-party; has sanctioned ICC officials but selectively supports prosecutions.
- Russia
Withdrew Rome Statute signature; subject of ICC warrant against its president.
- China
Non-party; generally opposes ICC jurisdiction over non-consenting states.
- South Africa
Has both criticized the ICC and pursued ICJ genocide proceedings.
- Germany
Active proponent of universal jurisdiction; major ICC supporter.
The Laws of War (Jus ad Bellum and Jus in Bello)
Key players
- United States
Influential interpreter of self-defense doctrine; major military power.
- Russia
Permanent SC member whose Ukraine war challenges jus ad bellum core.
- Switzerland
Depositary of the Geneva Conventions; hosts the ICRC.
IsraelCentral to contemporary debates on proportionality and occupation law.
UkraineDefender invoking Article 51; documenting alleged violations.
- United Kingdom
Active in shaping doctrine on humanitarian intervention and R2P.
International Humanitarian Law
Key players
- Switzerland
Hosts the ICRC and serves as depositary of the Geneva Conventions.
- United States
Major military power; party to Geneva Conventions but not all Additional Protocols.
- Russia
Subject of extensive IHL violation allegations in Ukraine.
- Israel
Central to current debates on IHL application in Gaza.
SudanSite of one of the world's most severe ongoing IHL crises.
- France
Strong proponent of IHL development and humanitarian initiatives.
Resources
News, lessons, and country profiles to prep for International Conference on International Law and Governance (ICILG).
Recent reporting to ground your prep
Lessons
Bite-sized lessons to build the basics
Courses
Guided courses that go deeper on the topic
The states in play, with the data that shapes their stance
NetherlandsCountry dossier
United StatesCountry dossier
ChinaCountry dossier
RussiaCountry dossier
United KingdomCountry dossier
FranceCountry dossier
IndiaCountry dossier
GermanyCountry dossier
BrazilCountry dossier
SwitzerlandCountry dossier
South AfricaCountry dossier
AustriaCountry dossier
PhilippinesCountry dossier
NorwayCountry dossier
JapanCountry dossier
IsraelCountry dossier
UkraineCountry dossier
SudanCountry dossier