ITLOS Legal Internship – Apply Now for July–September 2026 Opportunity
The ITLOS Legal Internship offers an unparalleled opportunity for law students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in international law, particularly the law of the sea. Ideal for law students seeking exposure to practical law in a global judicial setting, this internship allows participants to contribute to the Tribunal’s work under the guidance of experienced Registry officials. Interns will interact with legal experts, researchers, and international professionals while participating in projects that strengthen understanding of international law, public relations, library science, and translation.
About the Organization / University
The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, is an independent judicial body established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The Tribunal settles disputes arising out of the interpretation and application of the Convention, providing a crucial forum for states, international organizations, and private entities.
The Tribunal’s Registry supports judicial activities and administrative functions, facilitating legal research, document preparation, and public information dissemination. The ITLOS Legal Internship provides students and recent graduates the chance to understand the Tribunal’s functioning, engage in substantive international law research, and contribute to the work of the Registry. Interns are exposed to diverse areas such as public international law, law of the sea, international organizations, political science, library science, translation, and communications, making it an ideal opportunity for those pursuing global legal careers.
The internship promotes professional growth, intercultural understanding, and networking opportunities, enhancing career prospects in law firms, international organizations, and government institutions.
About the Internship / Opportunity
The ITLOS Legal Internship is a full-time three-month program designed to provide practical exposure to international law and Tribunal operations. Interns are assigned to one of the following departments based on their expertise and interests:
Legal Office
Interns work closely with legal officers, conducting research on international law, law of the sea, and administrative legal matters. Tasks include:
- Preparing notes and research papers for legal officers or the Registrar.
- Conducting individual research projects with written and oral presentations.
- Contributing to weekly press reviews covering law of the sea developments.
Library and Archives
Interns support day-to-day library operations and archival management, assisting with:
- Acquisitions, cataloguing, database maintenance, and collection management.
- Document processing and compilation of bibliographies.
- Assisting library users with legal resources and technology.
Linguistic Services
Interns participate in translation and revision of legal and administrative documents, involving:
- Text alignment for translation memory systems and database management.
- Terminological research and compilation of glossaries.
- Preparing official documents for archival and reference purposes.
Press Office
Interns contribute to the Tribunal’s communications, including:
- Drafting press releases and public relations material.
- Managing information for presentations, events, and social media.
- Assisting with organization of events and responding to public inquiries.
Interns develop a deeper understanding of Tribunal operations, enhance research and writing skills, and gain professional exposure in an international legal environment.
Event Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | Ongoing |
| Application Deadline | 31 December 2025 (for July–September 2026 period) |
| Internship Period | July–September 2026 |
Location and Mode
Mode: Offline / Onsite
Location / Address: International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, Am Internationalen Seegerichtshof 1, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
Format and Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 months |
| Working Hours | Full-time, standard office hours |
| Supervisor / Mentor | Head of Department / Designated Registry Official |
Eligibility & Requirements
Candidates for the ITLOS Legal Internship should meet the following criteria:
- Completed at least three years of university studies.
- Enrolled in a degree-granting or postgraduate program, or be a recent graduate (within 12 months).
- Normally not older than 32 years of age.
- Have a strong command of English and/or French.
- Demonstrate interest in international law, particularly the law of the sea, international relations, or international organizations.
Applicants from law, international relations, library science, translation, or communications are encouraged to apply. Selection considers geographical diversity, gender balance, and academic merit.
Additional Highlights
- Certificate of Completion upon successful completion.
- Unpaid Internship (funding available through the Trust Fund for the Law of the Sea for eligible applicants from developing countries).
- Mentorship from experienced Registry officials.
- Networking opportunities with international professionals and Tribunal members.
- Exposure to international law practice and administrative operations.
FAQs about ITLOS Legal Internship
1. Who can apply for this ITLOS Legal Internship?
Students and recent graduates from law, international relations, political science, library science, translation, and communications are eligible. Candidates must have completed at least three years of university study and have a strong command of English and/or French.
2. Is this ITLOS Legal Internship paid or unpaid?
The internship is unpaid. Limited funding may be available from the Trust Fund for eligible candidates from developing countries to assist with travel and living costs.
3. What is the last date to apply?
Applications for the July–September 2026 period must be submitted by 31 December 2025.
4. What is the selection process?
Applications are reviewed by the Internship Selection Committee. The final decision is approved by the Registrar and President of the Tribunal. Candidates are notified approximately one month after the deadline.
5. Will I receive a certificate after completion?
Yes. A certificate detailing the internship period, assigned tasks, and performance evaluation is provided.
6. Can recent graduates apply?
Yes, candidates who graduated within 12 months of application submission are eligible.
7. Are interns responsible for accommodation and visas?
Yes, interns must arrange travel, accommodation, and visas. Some guidance is provided, and eligible candidates may receive partial funding through the Trust Fund.
Important Links
Downloadables
- Sample Cover Letter
Contact Information
- Email: press@itlos.org
- Phone: +49 40 35607-227 / 181
- Address: International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, Am Internationalen Seegerichtshof 1, 22609 Hamburg, Germany