UNITAR Summer Institute on Global Issues Facing the United Nations: Strengthening Respect for the Rule of Law

Abstract

In June 2005, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) organized, under the leadership of Dr Roy S. Lee, Senior Special Fellow of UNITAR, a successful Summer Institute on Global Issues Facing the United Nations: Strengthening Respect for the Rule of Law. According to the UNITAR, “The objective of the program was to function as a high-level conference and special teaching institute. The topic of the June 2005 program was: Strengthening Respect for the Rule of Law in International Affairs. This theme was discussed in the context of the relevant recommendations presented in the Report of the High-Level Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change1 and in the response by the UN Secretary-General,2 and in other related official UN documents. Key issues included: Implementation of legal instruments, criminal accountability with an emphasis on UN Peacekeeping troops, collective process, non-use of force and self-defense, consensus building, nation building, avoidance of deadlocks, and standards setting. The program consisted of over 110 course participants, including 45 individuals from the developing and transition countries. The program consisted of 10 sessions, each with a specific focus”.3 Furthermore, “The one-week programme brought together faculty members, senior diplomats, high UN officials, renowned academics, government officials, NGO leaders, and corporate executives. Who gave lectures, and participate in discussions. Their varied backgrounds and experiences provided diverse perspectives for the exchange of views. As such, the programme provided a rich learning environment for participants who surely benefited from this multidisciplinary conference and its expert faculty”.4