International Refugee and Asylum Law
A foundation course introducing refugee status, asylum, non-refoulement, exclusion, protection procedures and international cooperation concerning displaced persons.
Academy pass mark: 80%
Public course: Anyone may study this course before applying for a Court service role.
Module 1 — Foundations of Refugee Law
Students are introduced to the international legal framework protecting refugees and other persons seeking international protection. The course examines the relationship between refugee law, human rights law and applicable domestic procedures.
Module 2 — Refugee Status and Protected Persons
Students examine the basic elements involved in determining refugee status under the applicable legal framework, including relevant forms of persecution, protected grounds and the need for an individual assessment of the circumstances.
Module 3 — Asylum Procedures and Fair Process
Students learn about asylum procedures, including registration, interviews, evidence, credibility assessment, legal representation and reasoned decisions. The course emphasises fair and lawful procedures for persons seeking protection.
Module 4 — Non-Refoulement and Protection
Students examine the principle of non-refoulement and why a person should not be returned to a place where the applicable law prohibits removal because of a serious risk of persecution or other protected harm. The precise scope depends on the relevant legal framework.
Module 5 — Exclusion and Cessation
Students are introduced to circumstances in which refugee protection may not apply or may cease under the applicable legal rules. The course stresses careful application of exclusion and cessation provisions and the need for individual legal assessment.
Module 6 — International Cooperation and Durable Solutions
Students examine international cooperation concerning refugees and displaced persons, including resettlement, voluntary return where lawful and safe, local integration and other durable solutions. The course emphasises protection, dignity and cooperation between States and international organisations.