LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights: What our Students Say

Alexis Comninos, LLM student at the Geneva Academy, in front of the Bains des Pâquis Alexis Comninos, LLM student at the Geneva Academy, in front of the Bains des Pâquis

11 January 2017

In this interview, Alexis Comninos, currently enrolled in the LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, tells us about the programme and life in Geneva.

Before studying at the Geneva Academy, Alexis completed an MA in Human Rights Studies at Columbia University, in New York, where he focused on the interaction and intersection of Human Rights and Humanitarian law and discourse.

Does the programme respond to your expectations?

Yes, the programme definitely meets my expectation. I particularly appreciate the opportunity we get to learn directly from leading experts in their respective fields. In addition, the internships allow us to apply some of the knowledge we build, by working with an NGO or an international organization for a few months.

How is life in Geneva?

Geneva is not exactly a vibrant city, but it is really not as bad as some make it to be – except maybe on Sundays. More seriously, it is full of interesting people from all horizons, and the Academy’s incredibly diverse student body reflects that.

Why did you choose to be photographed in front of the Bains des Pâquis?

The Bains des Pâquis hold a special place in the heart of all Genevans, and most Academy students love it. Whether it is in summer to swim in the lake and relax, or in winter to indulge in one of the best fondues in town or even in a sauna; spending time at the Bains des Pâquis always cheers me up.

MORE ON THIS THEMATIC AREA

IHL in Focus Spot Report News

Spot Report – Water Crisis in War and Under Occupation: Current Israeli Policy and Practice in Occupied Palestinian Territory Under International Humanitarian Law

16 June 2025

The Geneva Academy has published a new spot report analysing Israeli policy and practice relating to water in the Occupied Palestinian Territory through the lens of IHL.

Read more

IHL Lab Geneva Academy News

The Geneva IHL Lab: Bridging Theory and Practice

21 May 2025

The Geneva Academy has launched a practice-oriented course designed to equip our Master of Advanced Studies students with skills in open-source research and legal analysis under international humanitarian law.

Read more

Computer screen with warning: civilian infrastucture: do not attack Project

The Digitalization of Armed Conflict

Started in September 2020

This project will explore humanitarian consequences and protection needs caused by the digitalization of armed conflicts and the extent to which these needs are addressed by international law, especially international humanitarian law.

Read more

Project

The Lake Room Initiative (Space for Dialogue)

Started in February 2024

Read more

Cover of the 2023 Geneva Academy Annual Report Publication

Annual Report 2024

published on July 2025

Read more