The Siracusa International Institute for Criminal Justice and Human Rights is proud to announce that a new edition of the Specialization Course in International Criminal Law for Young Penalists has successfully concluded. The 24th edition of the course was held in Siracusa and online from May 26 to 31, 2025. Dedicated to the theme “International Criminal Justice, Conflict Resolution and Transitional Justice”, this year’s edition brought together an international group of emerging legal professionals and scholars.
Organized with the support of the Irish Centre for Human Rights at the University of Galway, Middlesex University Department of Law, and the International Association of Penal Law (AIDP), the course brought together 91 participants from 33 countries and 35 universities worldwide for an enriching experience held in the Institute’s venue, at the heart of Ortigia. The participants, including graduates, practitioners and researchers, engaged both onsite and remotely, reflecting the Institute’s commitment to accessible and inclusive education.
The academic program was led by 14 faculty members, under the direction of Professor William Schabas (Middlesex University), and covered key themes in international criminal law and transitional justice. Over the course of six days, attendees took part in 16 interactive sessions, exploring both foundational concepts and pressing global challenges.
A collaborative small-group exercise was organized early in the week to foster discussion and exchange among participants, followed the next day by a networking aperitivo in a picturesque seaside location.
At the end of the course, all participants received a certificate of attendance, and most took part in a written and oral examination to obtain the official Diploma issued by the Siracusa International Institute.
The Institute extends its sincere thanks to all lecturers, partners, and participants for their contribution to another successful edition of the course, and looks forward to welcoming future cohorts in 2026.