Fully Funded Nippon Foundation Training in Germany 2026 with Monthly Stipend and Europe

The 2026 ITLOS and Nippon Foundation Fellowship is an exceptional opportunity for young researchers and government officials from developing countries specializing in the law of the sea and maritime dispute resolution. This intensive nine-month program, based at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Hamburg, aims to enhance legal knowledge and practical skills in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The program offers not only academic instruction but also international study trips and direct interaction with global judges and experts, making it a crucial stepping stone to building an international career in the maritime sector.

1. Summary of the ITLOS Nippon Fellowship 2026

2. Financial advantages and benefits (comprehensive financing)

The Nippon Foundation will cover all expenses for participants, including:

• Flight tickets: Round trip to Hamburg.
• Accommodation: Free accommodation near the courthouse.
• Monthly salary: A financial allocation to cover living expenses.
• Health insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage.
• Study trips: Group tours in Germany (Berlin, Bremen, Kiel) and European countries (Belgium, Italy, Netherlands) to visit legal and diplomatic institutions.

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3. Fellowship structure: What will you do there?

• Academic aspect: Attending lectures by court judges and United Nations experts, and participating in a 4-week “Summer Academy” with specialists from 40 countries.
• Practical skills: Workshops in mediation, negotiation, drafting legal documents, and oral arguments.
• Watching trials: Attending real hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA).
• Research collaboration: Working with major research centers such as the Max Planck Institute and the Norwegian Centre for the Law of the Sea.

4. Eligibility Requirements and Admission Criteria

• Nationality: Citizens of developing and poor countries.
• Age: Between 25 and 40 years old .
• Educational background: University degree in law with an outstanding research record.
• Professional status: Maritime issues researcher or government employee (junior or mid-level).
• Research proposal: To present a study topic related to the implementation of Part XV of the Law of the Sea Convention.

5. How to apply (urgent steps)

1. Visit the site: Go to the training page on the official ITLOS website.
2. Application completion: Complete the online application form accurately.
3. Preparing the proposal: Write a strong research proposal that is relevant to your country’s maritime needs.
4. Nomination letter: Make sure your employer has prepared the official nomination letter.
5. Submission: Everything must be completed before March 6, 2026.