A Guide to International Law in Switzerland

International law refers to the body of legal norms, rules, and standards that are recognized or used by various states to have stable international relations with each other. As a rule, this may come from treaties, customs, and general principles. As part of its nature, international law is decentralized and more complex than domestic law. 

Why Study International Law in Switzerland? 

When it comes to the best countries to study programs related to international relations such as International Law, Switzerland is a top pick. 

Switzerland is known as a neutral country and is regarded as a genuine international country. This is due to its role as a center for peace and diplomacy, the number of foreigners residing in the country, and the number of international organizations residing there. In fact, located in one of its biggest cities, Geneva, are international organizations like the World Health Organization, International Labor Organizations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the United Nations Office. 

International Law Programs in Switzerland

LL.M in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, University of Geneva, Switzerland 

This is a one-year postgraduate degree from the university that is taught in English. The program aims to instill professional and academic knowledge of international law that is applicable to any armed conflict situation. Students taking this degree have the opportunity to gain access to some of the leading actors in international law and human rights, such as the UN, the ICRC, and UNICEF.  

Lucerne Academy for Human Rights Implementation, Lucerne University

This is a summer school program that includes hands-on learning for legal practitioners and law students. The aim of the program is to instill the incorporation of human rights knowledge and putting it into actual use. As part of the programs, students may have to do case assessment, oral argumentation, and brief writing. 

Certificate of Transnational Law, University of Geneva

This course can be taken in English or in French. In general, this program provides students with the chance to specialize in international legal affairs within 1 to 2 semesters. Students can also tailor their subjects and may choose between Public or Private International Law. 

Common Subjects and Coursework

Students of any International Law programs may take on subjects or coursework in Public International Law, International Refugee Law, International Criminal Law, International Humanitarian Law, International Human Rights Law, and Transitional Justice. Some may also be asked to write research and attend proceedings related to their courses. 

General Admission Requirement

Depending on the institution or program, pre-requisites for an International Law degree may vary. Some may require students to have an undergraduate or graduate degree, or a high school diploma. Some universities may also require a language proficiency requirement, as some courses in Switzerland are taught in English, German, or even French. 

Career Prospects

A degree, diploma, or certificate in International Law can open a lot of opportunities to work with various international organizations in the world, such as the UN and its other agency, the EU, the International Criminal Court, or work in a public or private law firm, and businesses. 

Want to know more about other courses you can take in Switzerland? Browse through MSM Unify’s courses and check them out.