The International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), in partnership with the GQUAL Campaign, is inviting applications for the 2026 Women Empowering Women in International Law (WEWIL) programme. This unique virtual networking initiative connects aspiring women legal professionals with distinguished women judges and experts serving in international courts, tribunals, and global legal institutions. Designed for women law students with a strong interest in international law, the programme offers an opportunity to explore diverse legal careers, gain practical insights from accomplished professionals, and expand international professional networks. The 2026 edition will be conducted entirely in English and will take place online on 16 November 2026. About the WEWIL Programme Women Empowering Women in International Law is a global mentorship and networking initiative that aims to strengthen the representation of women within international legal institutions. Through interactive small-group discussions, participants will engage directly with experienced women judges and legal practitioners who have built careers across a range of international legal fields. Rather than a traditional conference, WEWIL emphasizes meaningful dialogue and career guidance. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss professional pathways, and learn about the realities of working in international justice, human rights, environmental law, arbitration, and other specialized areas of international law. The programme is particularly valuable for students seeking greater exposure to international legal careers and the experiences of women leaders shaping global justice. Who Can Apply? Applications are open to women law students currently enrolled in a university or law school who have a demonstrated interest in international law. Applicants will be asked to provide information including: University or law school. Degree or academic programme. Current year of study. Expected graduation year. Country of residence and country of study. Areas of international law of greatest interest. Candidates should also be available to participate in the live virtual event on 16 November 2026. Areas of International Law During the application process, students must select at least three areas of international law that align with their academic or professional interests. Available fields include: International Criminal Law International Human Rights Law International Trade and Commercial Law Environmental and Climate Justice Law International Arbitration and Mediation International Maritime Law International Development Law The programme encourages students from diverse legal interests to apply, reflecting the broad range of expertise represented by participating judges and legal professionals. What Participants Will Gain Selected participants will join a carefully curated cohort of women law students from different countries and institutions. Through structured networking sessions, they will gain: Direct interaction with women judges serving in international institutions. Career guidance from experienced international legal professionals. Insights into different pathways within international law. Opportunities to expand international academic and professional networks. Greater understanding of the skills and experiences needed for careers in global justice. The small-group format encourages active participation, allowing students to engage in meaningful conversations rather than simply attending presentations. Selection Criteria Participation is limited, and applications will be assessed through a competitive selection process. IAWJ and the GQUAL Campaign will evaluate candidates based on several factors, including: Demonstrated interest in international law. Motivation for participating in the WEWIL programme. Relevance of the opportunity to the applicant’s academic and professional goals. Potential benefit the applicant may gain from engaging with women judges and legal professionals. Following the merit-based evaluation, organizers may also consider the overall composition of the cohort to promote broad geographic and institutional representation, ensuring a diverse international learning community. Application Requirements Applicants must complete the online application form and submit two short written responses of up to 1,000 characters each. The application questions ask candidates to explain: Why they wish to participate in the networking event and what they hope to gain from engaging with women judges and international legal professionals. How international law relates to their academic interests and long-term career aspirations, including the specific areas of international law they hope to pursue. Strong applications should demonstrate genuine motivation, clear career objectives, and thoughtful reflection on how the programme will contribute to professional development. Important Dates MilestoneDateApplication deadline18 September 2026Results notificationFirst half of October 2026Virtual networking event16 November 2026Event time9:00 AM ET (New York) Applicants should ensure they are available for the live virtual event before submitting an application, as participation requires attendance on the scheduled date. Why This Opportunity Matters Women continue to be underrepresented in many areas of international adjudication and global legal leadership. The WEWIL programme seeks to address this gap by creating meaningful connections between the next generation of women legal professionals and those already serving in influential international roles. For women law students interested in international courts, human rights, environmental justice, arbitration, development law or international criminal justice, the programme provides valuable exposure to real career journeys, practical advice and an international network that can support future academic and professional growth. Key Programme Details Programme: Women Empowering Women in International Law (WEWIL) 2026 Organisers: International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) & GQUAL Campaign Format: Virtual networking event Eligibility: Women law students Language: English Event Date: 16 November 2026 Time: 9:00 AM ET (New York) Application Deadline: 18 September 2026 Results: First half of October 2026 VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.