Anaya Nolan
International law is a highly specialised and interdisciplinary field that deals with the rules, regulations, principles and practices that govern interactions between international actors, such as nations, international organisations and individuals. A degree in international law can open up a wide range of career opportunities, including working for government foreign ministries, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, and consultancies involved in international affairs. Those with an international law degree can also pursue a regular law career, with jobs including corporate lawyer, policy advisor, mediator, and professor. International law graduates can find work that is both exciting and highly satisfying, but the field is very competitive, and further qualifications and internships are often required to stand out.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Job Roles | Mediator, Corporate Lawyer, Law Professor, Policy Advisor, Attorney, In-house Counsel, Refugee Lawyer, Human Rights Lawyer, Investment Lawyer |
| Skills | Reasoning, Problem-Solving, Peacemaking, Fluency in a Foreign Language, Legal Expertise, Research, Report Writing, Negotiation, Litigation |
| Employers | United Nations, Government Foreign Ministries, International Organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations, Consultancies, Universities, Tribunals |
| Salary | USD 51,700 to USD 127,489 per annum |
| Other Information | International Law is an interdisciplinary subject, encompassing topics such as war, peace, diplomacy, human rights, and international relations. |
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What You'll Learn
Corporate lawyer
To become a corporate lawyer, one must typically obtain an undergraduate degree, preferably with a strong academic background and a high GPA. While no particular degree is advantageous, many aspiring lawyers major in Political Science. Proficiency in multiple languages is also beneficial, as it can aid in communication with co-workers and when visiting other countries.
After obtaining an undergraduate degree, one must then pursue a Juris Doctor (JD) degree or a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree. An LLM in International Law can provide in-depth training in a particular area of international law, such as international commerce or human rights law. Passing the bar examination and obtaining a license are crucial steps to becoming a practising lawyer.
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Mediator
International law is a highly interdisciplinary field that deals with the rules, regulations, principles and practices that govern relations between international actors, such as nations, international organisations and certain individuals. A degree in international law can open up opportunities for jobs in a wide range of sectors, including working for government foreign ministries, international organisations, and non-governmental organisations or consultancies involved in international affairs.
One such role is that of a mediator. Mediators are conflict resolvers, helping parties to avoid taking disputes to trial by guiding them towards a settlement. This can include contract disputes, personal injuries, family law, labour issues, healthcare disputes, environmental issues, and international conflicts.
The role requires a good understanding of the law, as well as strong reasoning, problem-solving, and peacemaking skills. It is a highly confidential role, and mediators must be able to remain neutral and impartial. They study individual cases in depth and guide discussions and negotiations, striving to provide mutual solutions.
To become a mediator, you will need to complete a mediation training program. These programs typically last 30-40 hours and cover topics such as negotiation skills, dispute resolution strategies, and communication techniques. It is also beneficial to gain experience through an entry-level position with a mediation firm or by shadowing a veteran mediator. Building a portfolio of successful mediation cases can also make your job application more competitive.
International mediators may also be required to travel to mediation sites and participate in training to improve their neutrality and impartiality. They may also help manage facilities and ensure that all parties understand the legal and procedural methods being applied, as well as any relevant governing laws.
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Policy advisor
As a policy advisor for the ICRC, you would be responsible for delivering humanitarian diplomacy and promoting IHL (international humanitarian law). This involves influencing decision-makers on IHL issues, guiding national authorities on implementing IHL, and facilitating the exchange of information. You would also provide legal advice and technical support to national committees and assist in building their capacity on IHL.
To improve your chances of obtaining such a position, developing fluency in another language is beneficial. Additionally, gaining field experience, such as through internships or volunteer work, can enhance your candidacy.
Another organisation that employs policy advisors with legal expertise is the Public International Law & Policy Group (PILPG). PILPG is a global pro bono law firm that provides free legal assistance to parties involved in peace negotiations, drafting post-conflict constitutions, and war crimes prosecution. They also offer policy planning assistance and training on conflict resolution.
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Working for the government
Policy Advisor
A policy advisor lends their expertise in writing and presenting well-researched reports for government bodies. They advise, negotiate, and litigate, as well as working closely with policy analysts on the implementation of public policies. This role requires a high level of expertise, usually a master's degree, and sometimes a PhD. The average salary for a policy advisor is $74,500 per year.
International Lawyer
An international lawyer could work directly for the government, or for an international organization such as the United Nations. This role may involve specializing in human rights and international arbitration. A master's degree in international law is recommended for this career path. The national average salary for a corporate lawyer is $127,489 per year.
Mediator
A mediator helps parties to avoid taking disputes to trial by guiding them toward a settlement. They study and analyze each party's case, educate the parties on the mediation process, and guide discussions and negotiations. They may specialize in conflicts between international organizations, or in areas such as contract disputes, personal injuries, and family law. A degree in law is useful for this role, but education in mediation is the most important qualification. The average salary for a mediator is $51,700 per year.
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Working for international organisations
International law is a highly interdisciplinary field that deals with the rules, regulations, principles and practices that govern interactions between international actors, such as nations, organisations and individuals. A degree in international law can open doors to working with international organisations, including the United Nations, which offers internships and entry-level positions. These positions may have titles that are not obviously related to the law profession, such as "officer", so it's important to carefully review job listings and look out for these terms.
International organisations often work on a wide range of issues, including human rights, international humanitarian law, disputes between states, and international law in domestic courts. As such, jobs in this sector may involve working closely with policy analysts on the implementation of public policies and writing and presenting well-researched reports for government bodies. Policy advisors play an important role in advising, negotiating and litigating, and the role often requires a master's degree or even a PhD.
Another option within international organisations is to work as a mediator, specialising in conflicts between these organisations. This role involves guiding parties towards a settlement by studying and analysing each party's case, educating them on the mediation process, and guiding discussions and negotiations. It requires strong reasoning, problem-solving and peacemaking skills.
International law graduates can also find work with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or consultancies involved in international affairs. These roles may involve providing legal advice to clients on a range of issues, including business transactions, legal rights and responsibilities, and pursuing legal action when necessary.
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Frequently asked questions
International law is a highly specialised and interdisciplinary field that opens up opportunities for jobs in a wide range of sectors. These include:
- Working for government foreign ministries
- Working with international organisations, such as the United Nations
- Working with non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Working with consultancies involved in international affairs
- Working as a lawyer, specialising in human rights and international arbitration
Other jobs that require international law expertise include:
- Policy advisor
- Mediator
- Corporate lawyer
- Law professor
A Bachelor's degree in Law (LL.B.) is a good starting point for a career in international law. However, a Master's degree in International Law or a related field will open up more opportunities. Additional qualifications, internships, and work experience are also beneficial.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential for a career in international law. Good reasoning, negotiation, and conflict resolution abilities are also valuable. For jobs working with international organisations or abroad, fluency in a foreign language may be required.
