Understanding International Law Week

The International Law Week (ILW) was held at the Bukit Timah Campus from 23 to 27 Aug 2013. Jointly organised by the Centre for International Law (CIL) and the NUS Law Faculty, it comprises a series of talks and networking forums based on various international law topics conducted by speakers from the public and private sectors as well as CIL and the Law School.

At the launch event, Dean Prof Simon Chesterman and CIL Director Assoc Prof Robert Beckman spoke of their experience in international law and the possible career paths students could embark on in this line of legal work. This was followed by a conversation and networking session with the International Affairs Division of the Attorney-General’s Chambers in the evening.

Students also got to chat with former NUS Mooters over a casual tea session at the BMO Staff lounge on Saturday morning to discuss and learn more about what it takes to be an NUS Mooter. The following Sunday, CIL held a Conference on the Rule of Law in the ASEAN Community with the keynote speech by Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel. Other topics covered during ILW include an Introduction to International Law and how students can get started in the International Law Practice.

On the last day, students had the opportunity to learn more about International Dispute Settlement from Legal Counsel at the Permanent Court of Arbitration, Mr Aloysius P Llamzon. Ms Braema Mathi, President for MARUAH then shared insights on human rights and the pro bono opportunities at her organisation. Mr David Koh Yi-Da, who was a CIL Overseas Intern at the International Law Commission in Geneva, closed ILW with an account of his experience in Switzerland.

On the event as a whole, LL.M. candidate Renato Leite Monteiro from Brazil commented: “ILW was essential in providing me with some insights and information on how I can insert myself on the national and international work and academic environment.”