LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights: What our Students Say

Alexis Comninos, LLM student at the Geneva Academy, in front of the Bains des Pâquis Alexis Comninos, LLM student at the Geneva Academy, in front of the Bains des Pâquis

11 January 2017

In this interview, Alexis Comninos, currently enrolled in the LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, tells us about the programme and life in Geneva.

Before studying at the Geneva Academy, Alexis completed an MA in Human Rights Studies at Columbia University, in New York, where he focused on the interaction and intersection of Human Rights and Humanitarian law and discourse.

Does the programme respond to your expectations?

Yes, the programme definitely meets my expectation. I particularly appreciate the opportunity we get to learn directly from leading experts in their respective fields. In addition, the internships allow us to apply some of the knowledge we build, by working with an NGO or an international organization for a few months.

How is life in Geneva?

Geneva is not exactly a vibrant city, but it is really not as bad as some make it to be – except maybe on Sundays. More seriously, it is full of interesting people from all horizons, and the Academy’s incredibly diverse student body reflects that.

Why did you choose to be photographed in front of the Bains des Pâquis?

The Bains des Pâquis hold a special place in the heart of all Genevans, and most Academy students love it. Whether it is in summer to swim in the lake and relax, or in winter to indulge in one of the best fondues in town or even in a sauna; spending time at the Bains des Pâquis always cheers me up.

MORE ON THIS THEMATIC AREA

world map in data lines News

New Publication Explores the Human Rights Data Revolution

2 April 2024

The Human Rights Data Revolution details the transformation which promises to enhance the effectiveness, inclusivity, and scope of human rights monitoring and implementation worldwide.

Read more

GHRP staff in New York UN headquarters News

GHRP's 2023 Conference Strengthens Geneva-New York Human Rights Interconnectedness

6 November 2023

This landmark event of our Geneva Human Rights Platform focused on the need to bridge the gap between Geneva-based human rights mechanisms and the UN in New York, based on the interrelated nature of human rights issues across both cities.

Read more

A hand on a wire fence Event

Recognition of Gender Apartheid as an International Crime: Significance and Challenges

18 April 2024, 18:00-19:30

This panel will address crucial questions surrounding the necessity of a legal framework for gender apartheid under international law.

Read more

African Family Event

Biracial Children, African Mothers and Colonization: a Global Case for Reparations

17 April 2024, 18:00-20:00

This side event to the 3rd session of the Permanent Forum for People of African Descent will address a range of demands for justice and reparations from biracial people across Europe and Central Africa.

Read more

A general view of participants during of the 33nd ordinary session of the Human Rights Council. Training

The Universal Periodic Review and the UN Human Rights System: Raising the Bar on Accountability

11-15 November 2024

This training course will explore the origin and evolution of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) and its functioning in Geneva and will focus on the nature of implementation of the UPR recommendations at the national level.

Read more

Afghanistan, Parwan detention facility. Inside a room where detainees of the prison, separated by an acrylic glass, are allowed to meet with their families a couple of times per year with the help of the ICRC employees who facilitate the programme. Short Course

Preventing and Combating Terrorism

25 April - 17 May 2024

This online short course discusses the extent to which states may limit and/or derogate from their international human rights obligations in order to prevent and counter-terrorism and thus protect persons under their jurisdiction.

Read more

Neutrotechology Project

Neurotechnology and Human Rights

Started in August 2023

This project addresses the human rights implications stemming from the development of neurotechnology for commercial, non-therapeutic ends, and is based on a partnership between the Geneva Academy, the Geneva University Neurocentre and the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee. 

Read more

Online folders Project

Digital Human Rights Tracking Tools and Databases

Started in March 2023

This initiative wishes to contribute to better and more coordinated implementation, reporting and follow-up of international human rights recommendations through a global study on digital human rights tracking tools and databases.

Read more

Cover of the publication Publication

Briefing N° 23: The Human Rights Data Revolution

published on April 2024

Domenico Zipoli

Read more

Cover page of the Research Brief Publication

The Evolving Neurotechnology Landscape: Examining the Role and Importance of Human Rights in Regulation

published on December 2023

Erica Harper

Read more