States have a legal obligation to ensure that the weapons that are newly developed, manufactured or produced for their own armed forces are compliant with international law. Therefore, all States should conduct legal reviews of weapons at various stages in their manufacture or procurement. These reviews should be carried out by experts with a good understanding of the relevant legal provisions. This course will provide lawyers, diplomats and other officials with the knowledge and skills required for that purpose.

The course has been running since 2011 and is funded by the Swiss Government.

The five-day course is designed for lawyers, diplomats and other officials, either currently involved or likely to be involved in legal weapons reviews and/or other weapons-related issues. It does not assume any particular knowledge of, or previous experience in international law or the law of armed conflict.

With the generous support of the Swiss government and in view of the COVID-19 context, this year’s online edition is provided free of tuition charges. The GCSP will select participants ensuring diversity in national origin and gender. Preference will be given to applicants with a relevant professional background.