Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Human Rights, Vienna (Austria)
Straniak Academy for Democracy and Human Rights 2015
6 - 19 September 2015, Ulcinj (Montenegro)
Deadline for application: 21 June 2015 

The Straniak Academy for Democracy and Human Rights was established in 2013 by the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Human Rights - Research Association in Vienna in cooperation with the Faculties of Law and Sociology of the University of Vienna and the Faculties of Law and Political Sciences of the University in Montenegro. The name of the Academy refers to its main facilitator, the Hermann and Marianne Straniak Foundation. The implementation of the Straniak Academy is also supported by the Central European Initiative (CEI), the assurance company UNIQA, the agricultural company Agrana, the law firm Grilc Vouk Škof, and others.

In 2015, the Academy will take place for the third time in Montenegro from 6 to 19 September 2015 in Ulcinj, in the hotel complex “Dvori Balsića” and “Palata Venezia”.

Aim of the Academy
The goal of the Academy is to promote academic education on democracy, human rights and the rule of law by linking academia and practice, promoted through an interdisciplinary and interactive format. Special focus is set on the Western Balkan region.

Concept and programme
The Straniak Academy offers an intense two weeks programme to advanced students from the Western Balkan region, EU Member States and other states, who will have the unique opportunity to work with experienced professors, practitioners, and international/regional experts and to elaborate important issues on democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

The lessons, provided in “tandems” of teachers with different academic and regional
backgrounds, will take place daily in the morning and in the afternoon (with the exemption of two afternoons for free time), followed by evening discussions and round tables.

Between the lessons, students will have time to enjoy the sea and explore the cultural heritage of Montenegro.

Certificates and credits
After passing the final exam, students will get a certificate of the Academy. The transfer of ECTS is possible according to the plan and programme of the student’s respective faculties or universities.

Application fees and accommodation
Students and graduates from Western Balkan states: EUR 150.
Students and graduates from the EU and other countries: EUR 250.

The Straniak Academy covers the costs for the courses and accommodation (half board including breakfast and lunch or dinner in the hotel).

How to apply 
Call for applications open until 21 June 2015.
More information about the application procedure and reports about the Straniak Academy are available here.