Discussion on Sea-Level Rise at the Foot of the Swiss Alps
The 76th session of the United Nations International Law Commission (ILC) commenced on 28 April 2025 in Geneva. In the course of the session several long-term projects of the ILC are discussed, including the topic “Sea-Level Rise”. Among the participants of the first two weeks was Natascha Gojkovic, whose dissertation focuses on island States that are threatened with submerging in the (near) future due to sea-level rise. During her attendance, Ms. Gojkovic was not only able to follow the enlightening and exciting debates on the report of the Co-Chairs, but further had the opportunity to assist ILC member Prof. August Reinisch, LL.M (NYU).
In 2019, the United Nations General Assembly tasked the ILC with creating a Working Group in order to determine the legal implications under international law that arise due to sea-level rise. The topic “Sea-Level Rise in relation to International Law” addresses not merely the implications for the statehood of the affected island States, but further issues of maritime law and the human rights ramifications. After submitting several preliminary reports to the ILC in recent years, the Working Group completed its work at the beginning of 2025 with a Final Report by the Co-Chairs. This Report was discussed during the 76th session of the ILC.
In addition to detailed discussions on the Final Report of the Co-Chairs in the Study Group, Ms. Gojkovic was given the opportunity to meet members of the ILC in person and to network with their respective assistants. Sincere gratitude is expressed to Prof. August Reinisch for this invaluable opportunity and unique experience.