The Centre for Studies and Research

Before the Centre

The Centre for Studies and Research is intended for researchers who wish to carry out a joint research project on the selected topic, with the best contributions published in a volume by the Academy.

Each year, the Centre is led by one English-speaking and one French-speaking  Director of Research, both specialists in the chosen theme. The programme brings together around 24 researchers, divided into two language groups: one English-speaking and one French-speaking. Interested candidates may apply to the language group of their choice before the deadline indicated on the website.

Eligible candidates for the Centre for Studies and Research:

• Researchers, preferably holding a postgraduate degree (PhD or equivalent).

Around September preceding the Centre’s session, the  Directors of Research and the Secretary-General select the candidates who will take part in the programme. Each selected researcher is then invited to address a specific sub-topic within the main research theme, taking their preferences into account.

During the period leading up to the official opening of the Centre at the Academy in The Hague,  Directors of Research and the selected candidates communicate to identify the key questions raised by the sub-topics and begin their research remotely. This allows participants to arrive at the Academy with a draft version of their paper.

Proficiency in one of the two working languages (English or French) is required for all candidates.

Applications for the 2026 Centre programme are open until 15 October 2025.