Join us for an immersive learning experience at the University of Warsaw from July 8 to 12, 2024, as we delve into the complex world of illicit trade. Organized by the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC), in collaboration with the University of Groningen, and hosted by the University of Warsaw, the Summer School of Illicit Trade offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of this pressing global issue and explore strategies for combating it.

 About the program: 

Delve into the multifaceted realm of illicit trade through our comprehensive one-week course set to take place at the prestigious University of Warsaw from July 8th to 12th, 2024. Throughout this immersive experience, participants will engage in a dynamic blend of lectures, workshops, case studies, and discussions, led by esteemed experts and practitioners in the field. Explore the intricate economic, social, and security implications of illicit trade, gaining a nuanced understanding of its far-reaching effects on industries, communities, and global stability.  

The learning objectives of the Summer School are that, upon completion, participants will: 

• Have foundational knowledge of key concepts associated with illicit trade. 

• Be able to utilize important contemporary investigative techniques, such as Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Network analysis. 

• Have practical insight on best practice for local, national, and international institutions and stakeholders in their efforts to combat illicit trade. 

• Have access to a network of fellow peers, experts, and practitioners active in the field of illicit trade. 

This course also offers participants a certificate of participation upon attendance of all lectures and completion of the course activities and assignment.

Course fee*: 

• For students: 650€  
• For professionals: 900€ 

*Please note that PhD students are considered professionals.

Participants who cancel more than 4 weeks before the start of the course are liable to a 15% charge of the total course fee, unless the Summer School decides otherwise. For cancellations made within 4 weeks prior to the start of the course, participants are liable to pay the full course fee, unless the Summer School decides otherwise. Participants who withdraw during the course are liable to pay the full course fee, unless the Summer School decides otherwise. 

Who should attend: 

The Summer School is designed for students in their final year of undergraduate studies, master’s students, and PhD students in Law, Political Science, International Relations, Economics, Social Sciences, or other relevant disciplines, who are interested in learning more about illicit trade. It is also designed for professionals working in governmental institutions, local authorities, or international and non-governmental organizations, who are seeking to deepen their understanding of current illicit trade issues. 

It is expected that the participants have a sufficient command of the English language to actively participate in the discussions and to present their own work in English. 

Application procedure: 

To apply, please fill out the online application form available here. Please include the following documents with your application: 

• CV 
• Letter of motivation (max 1 page) 

The application deadline is May 31st, 2024. The payment deadline is June 14th, 2024. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until all available spots are filled. Therefore, we highly recommend submitting your application as soon as possible to secure your place in the program. 

A total of 4 students will be awarded a 250€ reduction on their admission fees!

The scholarship aims to achieve two main goals:

• The inclusion of participants who otherwise do not have the financial means to participate in this course.

• Supporting participants from countries in which illicit trade is especially prevalent and in which civil society is often a victim of illicit trade and organized crime.

To apply for a scholarship, please include a supporting statement in your application letter of a maximum of 250 words explaining why you would be the perfect candidate for it.

Sponsored by The Rudolf Agricola School for Sustainable Development