Alexis Comninos
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.
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.
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.
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.
Geneva Academy
Sixteen diplomats from fifteen Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries participated in a two-day Practical Training on Human Rights Council Procedures.
Alarming conflict trends from the IHL in Focus report were presented to members of the UN at the EU Delegation in Geneva by members of the Geneva Academy.
Adobe
This training course, specifically designed for staff of city and regional governments, will explore the means and mechanisms through which local and regional governments can interact with and integrate the recommendations of international human rights bodies in their concrete work at the local level.
UN Photo / Jean-Marc Ferré
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.
UN Photo / Jean-Marc Ferré