In this episode, amongst others, we discuss his fascination with the legal system that applies to international organisations:
‘the role of international organisations in making states act in a particular way towards the particular objectives defined by that international organization has always been particularly fascinating …as how to see an idea result from creation to fruition, the kinds of cooperation, multilateralism, and how one goes from the idea to its realisation.’
Femi shares some advice with those who want to work within the legal frameworks of international organisations.
'I think a really important thing is to have a bit of a thick skin. You have to be persistent. I applied for many, many jobs when I first started thinking about working for the UN. I didn't even hear back at all. ...Do internships at the earlier stages of your career, whatever internships you can find … Do as many of those as you can… attend events, scholarly societies, focusing on international law and the law practiced by international organizations.'
And.. how being a bass player is an important part of his life - underlining the importance that one does not need to fit into some sort of idea of who you need to be in order to fit into the UN system as a staff member.
'…music's very important. I can't imagine not playing music. I can't imagine not having music in my life. It's something I've always been interested in. I started playing, I must have been about 10 or 11. Started playing the guitar, and then I moved on to the bass guitar, and then the double bass, formally. And I've always continued playing all through my life. … just because we're international civil servants, we don't stop being normal people with normal interests.'
As well, Femi shares his insights on the functioning and importance of international administrative tribunals for international organizations. Enjoy this opportunity to meet with an international lawyer with extensive experience in the work of international organizations!