International Law Weekend - West: New Frontiers, Evolving Rules: The Future of International Law

The International Law Weekend - West, organized by the International and Comparative Law Program at UCLA School of Law and the American Branch of the International Law Association, will take place on February 20-21, 2026, in Los Angeles, California. This year's theme, 'New Frontiers, Evolving Rules: The Future of International Law,' addresses the evolving landscape of international law in response to shifting global power dynamics and emerging challenges. The conference will feature panels and keynote sessions led by leading experts in the field, discussing critical topics such as the governance of emerging technologies, the implications of geopolitical shifts, and the reimagining of international norms. Attendees will engage in discussions on pressing issues, including the ongoing negotiations for a new treaty on crimes against humanity, the role of cities as global norm-shapers, and the intersection of artificial intelligence and international law. In addition to the substantive panels, the conference will also include a film screening titled 'The Veto,' which explores the future of the Security Council, and a session on careers in international law. The UCLA Journal of International and Foreign Affairs will publish a collection of essays from the conference, contributing to the ongoing discourse in international law. This event promises to be an invaluable opportunity for legal professionals, scholars, and students to engage with the future of international legal frameworks.