The International Institute of Humanitarian Law has a strong association with international law and naval operations having sponsored the publication of the San Remo Manual on International Law Applicable to Armed Conflicts at Sea. In 2024, this Manual – globally recognised as a key reference book for naval and government practitioners and others- celebrates its 30 th anniversary!

This course seeks to examine and understand the legal regime affecting the planning and conduct of naval operations across the entire spectrum of conflict. The curriculum provides lectures across ranging from the law of the sea relevant to naval operations, to the law of naval warfare during armed conflict and other specific subjects of international law in the naval dimension, such as piracy, rules of engagement, maritime claims and disputes and undersea cables and infrastructure.

In this year’s course, lectures will be given by professor Wolff Heintschel von Heinegg, associate professor CDRE (ret.) (AUS Navy) David Letts, associate professor Captain (NLD Navy) Martin Fink and lecturers from the US Naval War College.

The course set-up is a combination of classroom lectures, discussions and working-group sessions. It seeks to facilitate in bringing operators and lawyers together and encourages participants to discuss their own experiences.