On 3 October 2025, the Legal Counsel met with Âé¶¹´«Ã½â€“Nippon Foundation Strategic Needs Fellows and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Fellows.
The group includes 21 Fellows from 18 countries, all government officials from developing States, including many from SIDS, working on various aspects of ocean affairs and the law of the sea. The Fellows are hosted by the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS), Office of Legal Affairs of the United Nations, through December. During this time, they receive specialized training, equipping them with knowledge to support their work upon returning to their respective countries.
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After introductions, the Fellows engaged in a dynamic conversation with the Legal Counsel. She spoke about her role, the work of the Office of Legal Affairs, her career journey, and her commitment to inclusive leadership as an International Gender Champion. The Fellows shared their backgrounds, interests, and goals for joining the program, fostering a meaningful exchange of ideas.