The prestigious Université Paris-Panthéon-Assas has now become the third university to join the Inter-University Diploma (DIU) in Monegasque Law, following a signing ceremony held on November 20th at the Palais de Justice.
The new partnership brings together the Monegasque Institute for Training in Legal Professions (IMFPJ), the Université Nice Côte d’Azur, the Université d’Aix-Marseille, and Paris-Panthéon-Assas, a significant step in making Monaco’s legal system known and accessible beyond its borders.
Speaking at the ceremony, Samuel Vuelta Simon, Secretary of State for Justice, explained the purpose of the diploma. “We all observe, and I myself noticed upon arriving in the Principality, that Monaco’s justice system was poorly known, poorly understood, poorly identified,” he said. “This diploma seeks to change that by providing students outside Monaco with a solid understanding of our unique legal system.”
However, beyond education, the diploma has another role, which is to inspire young Monegasque students to consider careers in the justice system, including competitive examinations such as the magistracy exam. The latter, Vuelta Simon described as a personal recruitment priority. He also added that Monaco’s justice system is “a quality, fully independent system, delivered in serene conditions, serving the needs of all residents, whether Monegasque or not.”
Historic ties with Paris
Stéphane Braconnier, President of Paris-Panthéon-Assas university, welcomed the partnership, highlighting longstanding connections between the university and the Principality.
“The links between Monaco and Paris-Panthéon-Assas are very old,” he said. “Professors from our university, heir to the Faculty of Law of the University of Paris, have served on Monaco’s Supreme Court and other Monegasque judicial bodies. Many Monegasque students already study here, making this collaboration a natural fit.”
Braconnier also stressed the growing complexity of Monegasque law and the contemporary challenges facing the Principality, noting that the DIU strengthens the capacity of young students to engage with these issues.
Open to all students and professionals
While the diploma primarily targets Monegasque students studying in Nice, Aix-en-Provence, or Paris, it is also open to French students and those from other universities. Professionals already working in the legal field can also participate through continuing education programs to specialise in Monegasque law or offer enhanced services to clients.
Jean-Philippe Vinci, Monaco’s Director of National Education, was present at the ceremony, also showing the government’s commitment. Vuelta Simon noted, “By informing and preparing our young Monégasques for these pathways, we hope they will be eager to return with experience and knowledge to serve the Principality, whether through the justice system or other public service.”
Yves Strickler, Scientific director of the IMFPJ, also added the broader significance of the diploma. “Training is a necessity,” he said. “It ensures that Monegasque law is known, recognised, and properly understood. By offering this program to French and Monegasque students, as well as to professionals, we promote the particularities of Monegasque law and, in doing so, support one of the pillars of the country’s sovereignty.”
Launched in September 2024, the DIU offers 120 hours of training over three years alongside students’ regular university studies. With Paris-Panthéon-Assas now joining, the program strengthens the international reach of Monaco’s legal education and creates new opportunities for students to engage with the Principality’s justice system.
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From left to right: Yves Strickler, Stéphane Braconnier, Samuel Vuelta Simon, Jean-Philippe Vinci and Delphine Lanzara. Photo by Monaco Life.