The Utsunomiya University Global Justice & Peace Research Institute (UU-GJP) was established within the School of International Studies at Utsunomiya University to further develop the International Peace and Human Rights/Humanitarian Law Research Group, which has been actively exploring pathways to sustainable peace since 2019. The institute was launched in commemoration of the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Faculty of International Studies and the International Criminal Court (ICC) in September 2025.

UU-GJP serves as a hub for academic research, education, and social collaboration on global justice through an interdisciplinary approach that bridges international law, international politics, and area studies. Its mission is to advance interdisciplinary research on global justice, foster the next generation of scholars and practitioners, and contribute to the international community through knowledge co-creation, education, and engagement with society.

UU-GJP Web site　(https://www.fujiih.com/)

Activities

1. Research

UU-GJP focuses on the International Criminal Court (ICC) and conducts interdisciplinary research on international criminal justice, peacebuilding, and global governance.
It promotes international cooperation with partner institutions in Europe, Asia, and Africa, and hosts annual symposia and workshops. This includes sessions co-organized with Asian universities during the Spring School.

2. Education

UU-GJP offers programs combining theory and practice in peace and justice studies:

Summer School: An experiential Japanese-language course for high school students on the ICC (International Criminal Court), human rights, and peace.

Spring School: An intensive English program on international criminal justice, jointly offered with partner universities in Asia. It concludes with a researcher workshop.

ICC Internship: Internal selection held twice yearly. Participating interns submit reports, contributing to the enhancement of educational resources.

3. Regional/Local Collaboration

UU-GJP collaborates with local schools and civic groups in Tochigi Prefecture to host public lectures and children's international human rights workshops. This links regional peace education with academic programs.

4. Student Support

UU-GJP supports student participation in moot court competitions, policy contests, and human rights education events, while also providing internship and research opportunities. Past support includes internships at UNHCR, ICRC, JICA, and NGOs. Several graduates have also been hired as researchers at the Embassy of Japan.