ILA Committees

The objectives of the ILA are primarily pursued through the substantive work of its international committees. There are currently 15 committees on topics as diverse as International Monetary Law, Global Health Law, Space Law, and International Law and Sea Level Rise.   

A Committee is established to assist the ILA in the realisation of its objectives of studying, clarifying and developing international law, both public and private, and the furtherance of international understanding and respect for international law, by bringing together members with relevant expertise to carry out research, surveys and investigations on selected areas of international law and to prepare reports for consideration by the membership and other interested parties at the biennial conferences and recommendations for adoption by the Conference Plenary.

Committees are established with a mandate in the first instance of 4 years. On the recommendation of the Director of Studies, the Executive Council may renew the mandate, in its original form or with amendments, for further periods of up to 4 years.

Membership of the Committees is open to persons nominated by their Branch in accordance with the nomination process. They must have sufficient expertise in the subject of the Committee in question, either as academics or practitioners. They must be able and willing to contribute actively to the work of the Committee, in particular by participating in Committee meetings, responding to questionnaires and providing input into circulated drafts.

Branches may also nominate one alternate for each appointed member. The role of alternate should be used to enable younger members of the ILA to participate in its work.

A copy of the ILA Committee Rules and Guidelines 2015 is available to download - Committee Rules and Guidelines 2015 These Guidelines are currently being revised and updated and an updated version will be available in early 2023.