Overview
Teaching and Researching International Law in Asia (TRILA) programme deals with a historic concern in which Asia is seen as a continent that accepts rules that others have made. In other words, Asian societies are viewed as rule-takers instead of rule-makers in the making of international law. This, however, is not a desirable situation given the emergence of Asian in the current global system. To change this historic condition, it is imperative for Asian scholars and practitioners to have the necessary skills and expertise that would enable them to effectively participate, innovate and make necessary changes that are crucial to enhance the international rule of law. The teaching and researching of international law are foundational to achieve this purpose. In this regard, TRILA programme serves as united effort of Asian law schools to identify the challenges being faced Asian scholars, practitioners, and students, and address those challenges in an informed, coherent, and collaborative manner.
The teaching component of TRILA focuses on getting the students interested in international law, discussing the different teaching methodologies, and formulating an international law course syllabus that reflect the goals and needs of teachers and students alike.
The research component of TRILA systematically addresses the issue on growing demand for scholars to publish. TRILA programme aims to provide guidance, especially to young scholars, in writing and publishing scholarly papers.
The establishment of TRILA programme is in line with NUS Centre for International Law’s vision ‘to become a regional intellectual hub and thought leader for research on and teaching of international law.’
TRILA on the Road
‘TRILA on the Road’ project was developed after the 2018 TRILA Singapore Conference. These are country-specific workshops which are aimed at discussing in depth the agendas set forth in the 2018 conference. TRILA team goes to specific countries to meet the scholars there, understand the local situation, and create a forum in which we can focus on the issues on teaching and research. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the recent workshops were conducted online. But, the goal remains the same. Each country has a different programme depending on the needs of local participants.
TRILA Database of Asian Cases, Treaties, and Reading Materials
The TRILA Database of Asian Cases, Treaties, and Reading Materials is an index of relevant materials that have special focus on Asia. The database is aimed at assisting teachers of international law in formulating a reading list that emphasizes Asian perspective, and one that is accessible to students. The database is equally helpful to researchers who are writing on specialised areas of international law that deals with Asia.