Introduction to International Environmental Law
Online Course
2 to 23 November 2015
500 USD
To register: https://www.unitar.org/event/node/357646
For more information: [email protected]
UN photo/Eskinder Debebe
Event ObjectivesMultilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) are the predominant legal method for addressing transboundary environmental problems. Adopted by States, MEAs are standard-settings instruments for effective global environmental protection. However, nowadays some States, particularly least developed and developing countries, face the challenge of implementing over 300 MEAs due to limited technical, financial and human resources. For the adequate implementation of and compliance with MEAs at a national level, there is a need to raise awareness on International Environmental Law (IEL) and develop specific capacities for its implementation at the national level.
Learning ObjectivesAt the end of the course, participants will be able to:
• Define the role and importance of international law for the protection of the environment
• Distinguish between the different sources of IEL and identify the main actors involved in its development
• Describe the historical evolution of IEL and identify its key standard-setting instruments
• Identify the mechanisms and procedures established to ensure compliance with IEL obligations
• Analyze the fundamental principles and emerging concepts of IEL and apply them to real situations
Content and StructureThe course is divided into three modules with a total of five interactive lessons. Module 1 presents a general introduction of IEL, followed by its historical evolution. In Module 2 participants will learn about the fundamental principles of IEL, as well as about the concepts framing it. Module 3 covers the processes and procedures in the making and application of IEL. Each module presents lessons, tasks, discussion forums and assessments.
The course comprises about 25 learning hours, spread over 3 weeks. Participants should expect a workload of about 8-10 hours/week. Depending on the module, there is a slight variation of the amount of learning hours required per week. The course is mostly organized around asynchronous activities, which gives participants flexibility to complete learning activities, tasks, and assessments.
MethodologyThe course is composed of lessons, which help participants to acquire the required knowledge necessary for the tasks, discussion forums, and quizzes. Practical examples and case study analysis allow for the direct application of the knowledge acquired. At the end, participants are required to submit a final report tackling relevant elements of a case study based on the knowledge gained. Participants will actively interact with their peers and the facilitator. The course facilitator will guide discussions, which will stir knowledge and experience sharing among participants. Additional resources are available for participants to further deepen their knowledge.
Targeted AudienceThis course is designed for government officials from ministries of the environment, agriculture, forests, water, tourism, foreign affairs and other related areas. It also targets international civil servants, judges, prosecutors and lawyers, NGO representatives, working in the fields of environmental law/management, international relations/politics and sustainable development. Academics, private sector professionals and graduates/researchers can also benefit from the course.
Certificates/Registration Participants who successfully complete the activities and assessments based on the established passing grade will receive a UNITAR Certificate of Completion.
Fee: 500 USDRegistration deadline: 23 October 2015For more information: [email protected]
