Nippon Foundation Training Programme 2026 – Fully Funded Ocean Law & Policy Training

• The ITLOS-Nippon Foundation Capacity Building and Training Programme 2026 is a fully funded international training initiative
• Hosted by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in partnership with the Nippon Foundation
• The programme focuses on ocean law, maritime governance, and sustainable use of the seas
• Training takes place in Hamburg, Germany
• It offers advanced knowledge for professionals, lawyers, policymakers, and government officials working in marine and maritime sectors

Purpose of the Programme

• Build capacity in international maritime law and ocean governance
• Strengthen legal frameworks for sustainable oceans
• Provide practical and theoretical training on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
• Support ocean-related policymaking and dispute resolution expertise
• Enhance professional competencies in marine legal practice

Key Benefits

• Fully funded training including tuition and course access
• Travel support and accommodation in Hamburg
• Exposure to international legal proceedings and experts
• Networking with global professionals, policymakers, and legal scholars
• Practical workshops, lectures, and case studies
• Certificate of completion from ITLOS and the Nippon Foundation
• Opportunity to engage with international law practitioners and tribunals

Who Can Apply

• Government officials and legal professionals working in ocean law
• Representatives of international and regional organizations
• Academics and researchers in marine law and policy
• Lawyers, judges, and legal advisors in maritime sectors
• NGO professionals engaged in ocean governance and environmental protection
• Early-career specialists seeking advanced legal training

Focus Areas

• UNCLOS and international maritime law interpretation
• Marine environmental protection law
• Sustainable use of marine resources
• Maritime dispute settlement mechanisms
• Policy analysis and legal drafting
• Integrated ocean governance frameworks

Participants will gain both theoretical understanding and practical insights into global maritime legal systems.

Eligibility Criteria

• Professionals with background in law, governance, or maritime policy
• Demonstrated interest in ocean law and sustainability
• Relevant academic qualifications or professional experience
• English language proficiency
• Commitment to the full duration of the training programme

Training Structure

• Lectures by leading experts in international law and maritime governance
• Interactive seminars and group discussions
• Case-study analysis of real legal disputes
• Visits to legal institutions and maritime organizations
• Practical exercises and policy drafting sessions

The programme combines academic rigor with real-world application.

Why This Programme Matters

• Ocean law is critical for climate action, marine conservation, and sustainable development
• UNCLOS is a central framework for governing the seas and resolving disputes
• Strengthened legal capacity supports global cooperation on maritime challenges
• Training enhances careers in international organizations, government, and law practice

Final Thoughts

• The ITLOS-Nippon Foundation Capacity Building and Training Programme 2026 is a rare opportunity for professionals to gain world-class training in ocean law and maritime governance
• This fully funded programme supports global leaders who will shape the future of sustainable oceans and legal frameworks
• If you are committed to marine policy, environmental law, or international governance, this programme can be a transformative step in your career