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International Office
The Federal Judicial Center’s International Office (IO) collaborates with judiciaries from around the world, sharing the Center’s expertise on judicial branch education, research, and court administration.
In 1992, the Center's statutory mission was amended to include a mandate
[to] cooperate with and assist agencies of the Federal Government and other appropriate organizations in providing information and advice to further improvement in the administration of justice in the courts of foreign countries and to acquire information about judicial administration in foreign countries that may contribute to performing the other functions set forth in this section.
Much of this work is carried out in partnership with other US government agencies, international organizations, and implementing organizations.
An historical overview of the Center’s international work can be found here.
Judiciaries Worldwide: An Online Resource on Comparative Judicial Practice
Judiciaries Worldwide (JW) is a web-based resource developed to enrich ‘global justice sector’ literacy. The site explores comparative judicial practice, offering information and insights about the work of courts and judges around the world, differences in civil and criminal procedure, and the role of international institutions. National judiciaries have varied histories and legal cultures. JW explores their practices, systems, and institutions. The site presents information through summaries and graphics and includes references for more in-depth study. JW is not a repository for scholarly articles or critical analysis. It provides neutral, accessible and practical overviews, “just enough” to inform and inspire curiosity.
International Programs
The Center hosts visiting delegations at its Washington, D.C., offices for informational briefings about the U.S. judicial system and the work of the Center. At the request of (and with funding from) other U.S. government agencies and international organizations, the Center develops and delivers educational programs abroad, participates in international conferences, and contributes to research and assessment initiatives.
Visiting Fellows Program
The Visiting Fellows Program offers judges, lawyers, court officials, and professors from other countries the opportunity to spend two-three weeks as scholars in residence at the Center. Fellows undertake research related to a reform initiative underway in their home countries. The International Office provides research assistance and coordinates meetings with judges, Center staff, other experts in the D.C. area.
Launched in 1992, the Visiting Fellows Program has hosted over 100 participants from more than 30 different countries. A list of recent fellows can be found here.
The program is open March - June and September - November. Fellows must arrange their own funding, travel, housing, and visa.
An application form can be accessed here.
Briefing Materials
Briefing materials about the US judicial system (in English and other languages) as well as a short video about the Federal Judicial Center can be accessed here.