RWI Blended Learning Course on Universal Jurisdiction for Afghan Human Rights Defenders in Australia & New Zealand 2026

Are you an Afghan human rights defender or advocate based in Australia or New Zealand? Do you want to build your expertise in international law while exploring pathways for accountability in Afghanistan? The Blended Learning Course on Universal Jurisdiction, organized by the Raoul Wallenberg Institute (RWI), is currently accepting applications for its October 2026 cohort.

This targeted program, co-organized with Monash University Faculty of Law, Monash Afghanistan Support Clinic, and the Castan Centre for Human Rights Law, combines a four-week online phase with a five-day fully funded in-person workshop in Melbourne. It is designed to strengthen the capacity of Afghan lawyers and civil society representatives to engage with survivor-centered documentation and universal jurisdiction cases.

If you are ready to engage with leading practitioners and develop practical strategies for pursuing justice, read on to discover the eligibility criteria, course modules, and how to submit your application before the October 13 deadline.

Quick Overview

Provider	Raoul Wallenberg Institute (RWI) & Monash University
Country / Location	Melbourne, Australia (and Online)
Program Type	Training Course & Workshop
Funding	Fully Funded (Workshop Costs)
Open To	Afghan residents in Australia or New Zealand
Deadline	13 October 2026

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Course Structure & Modules

The course follows a blended format consisting of two main phases:

• Online Phase (Self-paced): Delivered via Canvas, this four-week component includes reading materials, video lectures, case study analysis, quizzes, and discussion forums.
• In-person Workshop: A five-day workshop in Melbourne focused on peer exchange, case-based analysis, and engagement with practitioners to apply the acquired knowledge.

Course Modules:

• Module 1: Introduction to Universal Jurisdiction – Origins and Legal Sources
• Module 2: Victim-Centered Justice and Universal Jurisdiction
• Module 3: Universal Jurisdiction in Continental Europe
• Module 4: Universal Jurisdiction in Common Law / Anglophone Legal Systems
• Module 5: Strategic Relevance for Afghanistan – Action and Advocacy

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who covers the travel and accommodation for the Melbourne workshop?

The costs of participation in the workshop will be covered by RWI. A detailed agenda and logistical information will be shared directly with selected participants.

Can I attend the in-person workshop without completing the online phase?

No. The self-paced online phase provides foundational knowledge and must be successfully completed before you can attend the in-person workshop in Melbourne.

Do I need an advanced degree to apply?

A bachelor’s degree in law, human rights, or a related field is required; however, equivalent professional experience (at least 3 years in human rights or legal advocacy roles) is also accepted in place of a formal degree.

To be eligible for this course, you must meet all of the following requirements

Professional Experience

At least two years of professional or voluntary work documenting human rights violations or international crimes, engaging with survivors, or promoting accountability.

Demonstrated interest or previous involvement in universal jurisdiction, transitional justice, or international criminal law.

Familiarity with international legal frameworks like the Rome Statute or Human Rights Council mechanisms.

Academic Requirements

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in law, human rights, or a related field; OR equivalent professional experience (3+ years in human rights or legal advocacy roles).

Language & Residency Requirements

Intermediate proficiency in English, as the course is conducted in English.

Must currently reside in Australia or New Zealand.

Must commit to fully complete the four-week online component and attend the entire five-day in-person workshop in Melbourne.

If you are selected for this blended learning course, your participation includes the following support:

Full coverage of participation costs for the five-day in-person workshop in Melbourne by RWI

Certificate of completion from the Raoul Wallenberg Institute upon successful completion of both online and in-person components

If you are interested in applying for this course, follow these steps carefully

Review all eligibility criteria to ensure you meet the educational, professional, and residency requirements.

Access the official Microsoft Forms application link provided by RWI.

Complete all required fields detailing your background in human rights advocacy and international law.

Submit the application form before the October 13, 2026 deadline.

Apply Now →