The call is part of the activities organized jointly by Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands in the Republic of Croatia and Foreign Policy Forum on the topic of “International Law Today: Challenges and Prospects”. It includes the panel discussion that will take place 30 October 2026 in Zagreb. The idea is to mark the 80th anniversary of the beginning of the work of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), by focusing on the current state, challenges, opportunities and prospects of international law in more general terms. We are particularly interested in the contribution of international law, international justice and the international legal order to peace and international stability. The programme is opened to students of international relations and international law and thus this Call is an invitation to them to present their views on these topics.
What would we like to hear from students?
We are interested in your views on how relevant international law is today, what challenges it faces, and whether it can continue to contribute effectively to peace, stability and the regulation of international relations.
Your essay may address any issue related to the broader theme of international law and the rules-based international order. The questions below are intended only as possible starting points – you do not need to use them:
- How effective is international law today in maintaining peace and facilitating the peaceful settlement of international disputes?
- What do 80 years of the International Court of Justice tell us about the possibilities and limitations of international justice?
- Is it true – or not – what some politicians in contemporary world say – that „there is no international law anymore“?
- Can international law effectively respond to the challenges posed armed conflicts?
- How should security interests and sanctions policy be reconciled with the principles and obligations of international law?
- What happens when the political interests of states come into conflict with their international legal obligations?
- Are international institutions and existing enforcement mechanisms strong enough to address today’s global challenges?
- What should a rules-based international order look like 10, 20 or 50 years from now?
These are only some topics that we would like to address. You are encouraged to formulate your own question, problem or perspective, provided that it relates to the broader subject of the call. We are particularly interested in essays that put forward a clear original thesis, critical analysis, well-supported argument or fresh perspective on the current challenges and future of the international order.
What happens next?
The most interesting and successful essays will be selected for presentation (in English) at the event on 30 October 2026 in Zagreb. Selected students will have an opportunity to briefly present their main arguments and reflections to the panel and audience.
The event will bring together experts in international and European law and international affairs, including Dr Iva Vukušić, Professor Ivo Josipović and Professor Iris Goldner Lang.
How to participate
Submit your essay through the submission form.
The deadline for submission is Friday, 23 October 2026. The best essays will be considered for publication and will receive written acknowledgement that they have been selected for presentation.
The call is open to all interested students.
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