Basic Course (4 modules)

In 2007, UNITAR conducted the first session of the Basic Course in International Environmental Law, delivered through its e-Learning platform. The course is comprised of four modules adapted from the course materials of the Diploma Course in International Environmental Law:

 Module 1: Introduction to International Environmental Law
 Module 2: Techniques and Procedures in International Environmental Law
 Module 3: International Environmental Negotiations
 Module 4: Developments and Trends in International Environmental Law

The basic course provides a general overview of international environmental law: introducing its fundamental principles; law making process; implementation and compliance procedures and negotiations of environmental agreements. Its completion enables participants to attain a basic knowledge of environmental agreements, raising their awareness about techniques and procedures to further improve compliance and enforcement of environmental obligations at the national level.

The Basic Course in International Environmental Law conducted in 2007 was geared towards stakeholders directly involved with environmental administration and policy making. Specifically, the course targeted government officials from Ministries of Environment and Ministries of Foreign Affairs, international civil servants and NGO representatives working in the field of environmental law, environmental management, international relations, international politics and other areas related to sustainable development.

The session conducted in 2007 was offered free of charge. UNITAR received 1,415 applications from all over the world and selected 250 candidates, ensuring equal geographical representation and gender balance.

In 2008, UNITAR is launching a new session in order to respond to the high demand for this kind of training in international environmental law. The 2008 session will be offered free of charge for participants from developing countries and will be particularly aimed at candidates who were not accepted for the 2007 session due to a large volume of applicants.