Training Workshop on Protecting the Right to Culture in War Zones and Rural Areas in Africa

The African Institute of International Law (AIIL) offers a fully funded inaugural training workshop focused on safeguarding cultural rights in conflict zones and rural areas across Africa. Held in Arusha, Tanzania, from 12–16 October 2026, this program examines legal frameworks, threats to cultural heritage, and practical strategies for protection. It brings together 42 participants—government officials, judges, academics, civil society representatives, and community leaders—to develop legal recommendations and strengthen capacity for cultural rights advocacy. The workshop includes educational visits, expert presentations, and testimonies from affected communities, culminating in a final report and recommendations for policy reform and regional cooperation.

What it offers

• Fully funded participation: Round-trip flights, accommodation, meals, local transport, and workshop-related costs.
• Expert-led training: Substantive sessions on legal frameworks, threats to cultural rights, and investigative skills.
• Interactive discussions: Comparative case studies, working groups, and participant-led testimonies from conflict/rural areas.
• Institutional visits: Tours of the UN Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals and African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
• Outcome: A final report with actionable recommendations for policy, research, and training.

Who can apply

The workshop targets African professionals, including:

• Government lawyers (culture, justice, foreign affairs, Indigenous affairs).
• Judicial officers (judges, prosecutors, magistrates).
• Academics/researchers in law, anthropology, heritage studies, or conflict studies.
• Civil society/human rights advocates and cultural heritage professionals.
• Community leaders (Indigenous peoples, pastoralists, rural groups).
• Security-sector officials with cultural-protection roles. Priority is given to those with direct experience in war zones, displacement, or threatened cultural heritage.

How to apply

1. Submit an email to [email protected], titled Application – Cultural Rights Workshop 2026.
2. Include:
   • Current CV (1 page max).
   • Motivation statement (1 page) on relevance to the workshop.
   • Brief description of relevant experience (conflict/rural/Indigenous focus).
   • Affiliation, position, nationality, and residence.
   • Confirmation of availability for 12–16 October 2026.
3. Deadline: Wednesday, 9 September 2026, 12:00 noon (East Africa Time). Applications after this date or missing documents will be not considered.

Good to know

• Selection is competitive, based on experience, relevance, and diversity (geographic, professional, gender).
• No travel arrangements before receiving an official invitation from AIIL.
• Language: English is the primary language; fluency may be required for some sessions.
• Travel costs are fully covered only for formally selected participants.