Events

Our Events

The Maastricht Centre for Human Rights hosts a rich variety of events throughout the year, bringing together scholars, practitioners, and students to engage with pressing issues in international and human rights law. Our main event formats include:

Theo van Boven Annual Lecture
Named in honour of Professor Theo van Boven, this flagship annual event celebrates his lifelong contribution to human rights and international justice. Each year, a distinguished scholar or practitioner delivers the lecture on a theme of contemporary relevance, continuing the spirit of his work and legacy.Pick 

Ambassador Lecture Series
This series offers a platform for diplomats to reflect on current developments in international law and policy, and to engage in dialogue with and share their experiences and insights into diplomacy and international affairs with the academic and student community of Maastricht University.

Pick Our Brains Series
An informal forum where Centre members and invited guests share ongoing research, draft papers, or emerging ideas. The sessions are designed to encourage open discussion, critical feedback, and the exchange of perspectives across disciplines.

International Law Discussion Group (ILDG)
The ILDG provides an intellectual community for researchers of international law at Maastricht University. It offers a regular space for scholars and students—both within and beyond the Centre—to discuss topical issues in international law, including human rights, and to exchange ideas that may inspire new initiatives, events, and research collaborations.

Live Streams and Discussions of International Court Hearings
The Centre regularly organizes collective viewings and discussions of landmark hearings and decisions before international courts and tribunals. These events provide a unique opportunity to follow proceedings in real time and to reflect on their broader legal and political implications.

Conferences, Workshops, and Talks
Beyond these recurring series, the Centre also hosts conferences, expert workshops, and public talks on an ad hoc basis. These events foster collaboration, generate new ideas, and contribute to ongoing debates in the field of human rights and international law.