The International and Comparative Law Program (ICLP) at UCLA School of Law and the American Branch of the International Law Association (ABILA) invite you to join us for International Law Weekend - West on February 20-21, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.

The theme of the 2026 ILW-West is New Frontiers, Evolving Rules: The Future of International Law.

As global power dynamics shift and new frontiers expand beyond traditional borders, international law stands at a critical crossroads. This conference unites leading scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to explore how international legal frameworks must evolve to meet the demands of an increasingly complex and multipolar world - to protect humanity, the planet and future generations. From governing emerging technologies and new frontiers to reshaping geopolitical influence and reimagining international norms, we will confront the possibilities and tensions that define the next era of international law.

The conference will include:

• Keynotes from international law experts
• Substantive panels on a range of topics
• A screening of The Veto
• Career events
• Networking receptions

The conference is sponsored by the UCLA Journal of International and Foreign Affairs, which will publish a collection of essays from the conference in its 30th volume in 2026.

Please register here to get on the mailing list for more information about the panels and how to register.

Conference Program

The full Conference Program will be released in mid-January.  

For planning purposes, the program will take place during the following hours:

• Friday, February 20: 12:30pm - 6:30pm
• Saturday, February 21: 9am - 6pm

Conference Registration

Conference registration will open in January.  Please sign up here to receive that information.

Conference Accommodation

There are a lot of hotels within close proximity of UCLA School of Law. Two that we recommend are:

The W Beverly Hills (walkable to the Law School)
930 Hilgard Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90024
310-208-8765, call and ask for UCLA rate
Rate: $279/night
W Los Angeles – West Beverly Hills - Guest Reservations

Hotel Angeleno (a short car ride from the Law School)
170 N Church Ln
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-476-6411
Rate: approx. $190/night but subject to change so the earlier you book the better
Hotel Angeleno | Hotels in Los Angeles | West LA Hotels