As the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) marks its 60th anniversary in 2026, it has launched a Global Essay Competition inviting researchers from diverse disciplines to contribute fresh perspectives on the future of international trade law.
The competition seeks original research examining the impact of UNCITRAL texts and exploring innovative approaches to addressing emerging challenges in international trade law. Interdisciplinary submissions connecting law with economics, technology, and other fields are particularly encouraged.
Theme
“From Foundations to Frontiers: UNCITRAL’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow’s Trade Law”
Eligibility and Submission Guidelines
The competition is open to researchers from all disciplines with an interest in international trade law. Submissions must be endorsed by a university or institution.
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Word limit: Maximum 10,000 words.
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Languages: Any of the six official languages of the United Nations.
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Submission deadline: 31 December 2026.
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Email: uncitral60@un.org
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Subject line: “Global Essay Competition”
Recognition for the top 10 authors
The ten selected authors will have the opportunity to present their research at the UNCITRAL Commission session in Vienna in June or July 2027. Their essays will also be published as part of UNCITRAL’s 60th-anniversary documentation, and they will receive an offer for a visiting scholarship at the UNCITRAL secretariat.
The competition offers researchers an opportunity to contribute to the evolving discourse on international trade law and help shape its future through original, forward-looking scholarship.
For further details, visit the official competition webpage and consult the FAQ flyer.
