• democracy and rule of law
  • SDG16

The Hague Justice Week 2026 - Call for Participation

22 June, 2026

The Hague Justice Week 2026: 80 Years and Beyond
Renewing the Promise of Peace and Justice through Law – Call for Participation

A Changing World, a Renewed Commitment

Around the world, the rule of law and multilateral cooperation are under increasing pressure. Conflicts are intensifying, democratic norms are eroding, civic space is shrinking, and geopolitical tensions are rising. Trust in international institutions is being tested.

In this context, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2026, a milestone that invites not only reflection, but renewal. Founded in the aftermath of the Second World War, the ICJ embodies a promise: that disputes between states can be resolved through law, not force. Eighty years on, that promise remains as essential as ever. Yet, the the international legal order is not something we simply uphold: it must be actively promoted, reflected on and strengthened.

Hague Justice Week 2026 builds on this moment to look forward: what does peace and justice through law mean today and how must it evolve?

About Hague Justice Week – an Open Platform for Exchange and Action

Hague Justice Week is an initiative of the Municipality of The Hague and The Hague Humanity Hub, together with ecosystem partners. Taking place from 16–20 November 2026, Hague Justice Week is an open, hybrid platform bringing together a range of independently organised events. Participants are invited to engage in ways that suit them, in person or remotely, by contributing to and selecting from a rich, distributed programme.

Through these activities, participants will explore how international rule of law can respond to today’s challenges, in order to rebuild trust in institutions and strengthen cooperation across borders.

Who can participate?

We invite organisations from The Hague and beyond to contribute activities or initiatives connected to the theme 80 Years and Beyond: Renewing the Promise of Peace and Justice through Law. Contributions can include public events, professional dialogues, lectures, workshops, exhibitions, film screenings, cultural activities, youth or education activities, publications, campaigns, delegation visits, networking sessions or other relevant initiatives.

What we offer

By joining Hague Justice Week, your activity gains inclusion under a shared umbrella, visibility through a central online programme, thematic alignment and opportunities to connect with other participating organisations. We encourage collaborative activities, and, where feasible, the Hub may support selected contributions through connections, light programme advice or hosting in partnership.

Your responsibilities

Participating organisations are responsible for the content, logistics, funding, registration, promotion and audience outreach for their own activities. Inclusion in Hague Justice Week does not imply financial support or formal endorsement.

Review and coordination

Submissions will be reviewed to assess relevance to the theme, feasibility, audience clarity, public or ecosystem value, and fit with the overall programme. Organisers may contact applicants to discuss how their activity can best be integrated into the week.
Please note that the selection is a two-tiered approach: after a positive initial review as stated above, you will be required to provide further detail via an ‘event specifications’ form. We aim to provide the first confirmation by the end of July. Please submit your activity for initial review by 15 July (end of day Central European Summer Time – CEST).

For questions, contact haguejusticeweek@humanityhub.org

Apply to Participate Here