Environmental Justice Clinic
Amsterdam Law Clinics
The Environmental Justice Clinic offers a unique opportunity for our Master's students with an interest in sustainability, (international) environmental law and human rights law to engage in pro bono research for external clients. The Enviromental Justice Clinic encourages students to think critically about the functions of law in society and the possibility of making positive changes to contribute to society as a lawyer. The clinic offers pro bono services to individuals and (nongovernmental) organisations such as Word Wide Fund for Nature.
Teamwork and a hands-on approach
Top students in their final years of study at the Amsterdam Law School carry out research at the Environmental Justice Clinic. They are selected on the basis of superior academic performance and closely supervised by the faculty. If you are selected, you'll receive intensive, hands-on, guidance on how to conduct legal research, and how to write a legal opinion for external clients. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, high quality work, teamwork, and respect for confidentiality.
Clinical work
Clinical work consists of projects undertaken for clients for which the students conduct legal research, provide legal advice and draft legal documents. The clinical work is conducted in a team of 3-5 students with regular meetings with supervisors (and clients). An international, cross-border and interdisciplinary perspective is characteristic of the clinical work.
Current projects
In September 2021, a new group of clinic students will start on a project in relation to the use of pesticides in the Netherlands.
The work in the clinic connected me with like-minded people. It tested my legal knowledge as I had to apply it to a real, relevant project, but also pushed me to think outside the box and gain knowledge in disciplines other than law. Moreover, it gave me an insight into what the professional life of an international lawyer could look like, which is valuable for every student starting their career.Elena Lazic, Business & Human Rights Clinic, 2020/2021
Contact us
For any questions regarding the Environmental Justice Clinic, please email us at amsterdamlawclinics@uva.nl or contact:
Requirements and eligibility
The Environmental Justice Clinic is in principle open for all Master's students of the Amsterdam Law School.
Other requirements are:
- You are available at least 10 hours per week in a semester.
- You have a strong work ethic, excellent communication and writing skills, and a genuine interest in (international) environmental law, human rights law and/or civil law.
Looking back, aside from the unique opportunity of working in a meaningful project with a real client, what made this experience memorable was the joint effort to provide creative solutions for legal questions- a challenge which I encourage all law students to welcome.Dorothy Puga, Business & Human Rights Clinic, 2020/2021
Contact former clinic students
If you're interested in more hands-on information about participating in a clinic and experiences from former Environmental Justice Clinic students, you can contact any of the following former students. Send an e-mail to amsterdamlawclinics@uva.nl and we will provide you with the relevant contact information.