Internship at the International Criminal Court (ICC), The Hague: Chambers (Judiciary) [Unfunded; 3 to 6 Months; Apply by 31 December 2026]

The International Criminal Court (ICC) investigates and, where warranted, tries individuals charged with genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression. Under requisition 24223, the ICC is inviting applications for internships in Chambers (Judiciary) at its duty station in The Hague, Netherlands.

Chambers comprises the three judicial divisions (Appeals, Trial and Pre-Trial) and is in charge of judicial proceedings for crimes under the jurisdiction of the Court: issuing decisions and orders, responding to motions filed by parties and participants, holding status conferences and hearings, and analysing evidence.

The vacancy announcement is used to give hiring managers a list of suitable candidates from which they may make a selection throughout the year, so applicants must state their availability in the relevant field when applying.

• In-depth legal research and analysis of questions of international criminal law, public international law, international humanitarian law and human rights law, as well as relevant international and national legal materials.
• Legal advice on the interpretation and application of the Court's documents.
• Summaries of evidence material, submissions and decisions.
• Preparation of legal memoranda and observation of Court proceedings.

• Education: a degree in law or a relevant legal qualification, or being in the final stages of studies at a recognised university, demonstrating very good knowledge in international/national criminal law, comparative law and criminology, public international law, international humanitarian law or human rights. A very good record of academic performance is expected.
• Experience: placements focus on candidates in the early stages of their careers. Practical experience is not essential; relevant experience may be considered an asset but should not exceed 3 (three) years.
• Skills: ability to adapt to multicultural and multilingual working environments, strong teamwork, very good oral communication and drafting skills, good computer and research skills (including electronic databases).
• Languages: proficiency in English or French is required, with working knowledge of the other desirable. Knowledge of Arabic, Chinese, Russian or Spanish is an asset.
• Nationality: the ICC states that, unless otherwise specified in the vacancy, candidates from non-State Parties are eligible to apply for an internship. This vacancy specifies no restriction, so Indian law students and graduates may apply. Nationals of non-represented and under-represented countries are encouraged to apply.

Interns are required to work full time for a period between (minimum) three and six months, agreed before commencement. The vacancy header lists a contract duration of 6 months.

The ICC states that internship and visiting professional placements are unfunded. The Court cannot provide any remuneration, nor reimburse expenses incurred before, during or after the placement. Applicants must be able to support themselves for the entire duration of the internship.

• A completed 'Duties and Responsibilities Form' (step 1 on your eRecruitment profile page).
• Motivation letter (maximum 400 words).
• Two reference letters (one academic).
• Scanned copies of university degrees and/or diplomas.
• Scanned copies of official academic transcripts stating courses, results and completion date.
• One short essay or writing sample on a subject relevant to the work of the Court (maximum 750 words, single spaced, typewritten).

The ICC only accepts applications submitted through its career portal and does not accept email applications. Register with ICC eRecruitment, complete your candidate profile, open requisition 24223 (Internship - Chambers) and click 'Apply', then submit the application following the system prompts. The deadline for applications is 31 December 2026.

Due to the volume of applications received, only successful applicants will be contacted by the Court.