October 26, 2015: The Advanced Course on the Law of Transboundary Aquifers is an initiative of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the University of Geneva's Platform for International Water Law and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. The course will last 3 weeks. On average participants will have a workload of about 8-10 hours per week for an approximate total of 24 learning hours. Participants who successfully complete assessments based on the established passing grade will receive a Certificate of Completion jointly issued by UNITAR and the University of Geneva.

Learning objectives

Participants will be able to define the principles of the law on transboundary aquifers and explain the main features of the International Law Commission's Draft Articles on the Law of Transboundary Aquifers and UNECE's and UNESCO's practice governing the use of groundwater resources. They will also be able to examine the scope of main freshwater agreements in relation to groundwater resources. 

Registration procedure 

Candidates should have a background in law, political science, economics or international relations, or relevant work experience in freshwater related issues, and be between 25 and 50 years old. The course is conducted in English; fluency in the language is required, particularly written ability. Qualified candidates should complete the online form at https://www.unitar.org/event/law-transboundary-aquifers and enclose their resumes and motivation letters. Only complete applications will be taken into account in the selection process. The deadline for applications is 4 November 2015. 

Selection process

35 participants will be selected to participate in the course (free of charge). The criteria for selection are based on background, professional responsibilities, language skills, and age group. Priority will be given for females and qualified applicants from the least developed and developing countries. The final selection will be closed on 7 November 2015. Only selected participants will be notified by email.