Trial Monitoring
Are you interested in international criminal trials and want to experience firsthand how justice is implemented in terrorism and war crimes proceedings? Then the ICWC Trial Monitoring Program is the perfect opportunity for you!
This unique, nationwide program trains qualified trial observers who are able to accompany national and international criminal proceedings and document their findings in a scientifically rigorous manner. Through interdisciplinary collaboration among students from diverse fields, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex legal, political, and societal issues addressed in such trials.
Since the winter semester 2010/11, the ICWC has been monitoring significant court proceedings in Germany and worldwide—from the first genocide trial against a Rwandan in Frankfurt to current cases against Syrian war criminals and ISIS fighters. On May 18, 2017, the commitment of our students was recognized with an award from the Hessian Ministry of Science and the Arts. In 2024, the associated teaching-research project “Trials Against Reich Citizens – Understanding and Explaining a Resilient Democracy” received the teaching award Lehre@Philipp.
What to Expect:
- Practical Insights: Observe high-profile criminal trials with international relevance, produce reports, and analyze proceedings from legal, political, and historical perspectives.
- Intensive Preparation: Through workshops and trainings, learn the scientific methods of trial monitoring and deepen your knowledge of national and international criminal law and criminal procedure.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work alongside students from law, political science, Middle Eastern studies, and other disciplines. This diverse exchange enriches the reporting process.
Why Participate?
- Scientifically Rigorous: Observations follow objective standards to ensure adherence to fair-trial principles.
- Independent: The program remains neutral and never intervenes in proceedings. Your reports enhance transparency without influencing the trial.
- Competent: Practical training and international collaborations, e.g., with the Syria Justice and Accountability Centre, prepare you to contribute even in global trials.
How You Are Prepared:
- Participate in targeted trainings and workshops, e.g., on Trauma and PTSD or effective reporting.
- Deepen your understanding through excursions, such as visits to the International Criminal Court in The Hague.
- Regular project meetings and guest lectures from experts expand your knowledge and allow you to address questions directly to experienced professionals.
Sounds exciting? Join our team and gain invaluable experience in the world of international criminal justice!