The Hague celebrates 80 years of the International Court of Justice

The Hague celebrates 80 years of the International Court of Justice

 The Hague, the Netherlands, 17 April 2026  - The Hague is marking the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations’ principal judicial body. Since 1945, the ICJ, based in the Peace Palace, has played a key role in resolving disputes between states and advancing international law.
 
A series of events is taking place in the city throughout the year, including a formal anniversary programme today, 17 April. The Court will hold a solemn sitting at 15:00 in the Great Hall of Justice of the Peace Palace to mark 80 years since its inaugural session. The ceremony will take place in the presence of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, alongside senior international representatives including the President of the UN General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock, the President of the UN Security Council, Jamal Alrowaiei, and the Dutch Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tom Berendsen.
 
On the same day, the Alumni Association of the Judicial Fellows Programme will be launched during a side event at the Auditorium of the Academy Building. More than 80 former fellows from around the world are expected to attend. The Association is set up to strengthen professional ties and encourage mentorship among alumni. Since the programme’s start in 1999, 291 fellows from over 75 countries have participated. During the launch, fellows Mr. Eborne and Ms. Arana Chacón will share their experiences of working at the Court.
 
“The programme offers a unique opportunity to work at the heart of international justice and to build lasting professional connections”.  Ms. Karin Arana Chacón, fellow 2025-2026
 
The Judicial Fellows Programme gives early-career legal professionals the opportunity to work directly with ICJ judges. Fellows assist with legal research and case preparation, contributing to proceedings that often have global impact. Over the years, the programme has attracted promising international talent, including former fellows such as international human rights lawyer, Amal Clooney.
 
Peter Kievoet, director International Affairs for the City of The Hague welcomes the launch of the alumni association: “The presence of the International Court of Justice and its members underlines The Hague’s role as the international city of peace and justice. It reflects a long-standing commitment to the rule of law that the city will continue to support in the years ahead.”