Jitka Kranz Internship experience
I had the pleasure of spending five months at the JCBRN Defence COE in Vyskov. Coming freshly out of university, having a research-centred internship provided a nice transition from academic to professional life. Due to my background in international relations and public international law, I was thrilled to work at an international body such as the JCBRN Defence COE at which I could apply knowledge from both fields. Prompted by the current geopolitical situation I decided to examine the compatibility of tactical nuclear weapons with international humanitarian law when used in self-defence. The base of my research surrounded the ICJ Advisory Opinion on the legality of nuclear weapons from 1996. In my research, I revised the court's ruling focusing solely on tactical nuclear weapons in three different scenarios. Examining the effects of nuclear detonations I then compared those to applicable customary international law with a special focus on the principles of international humanitarian law such as proportionality and distinction. My supervisor Mr Hybl kindly supported my analysis, always having an open ear for a discussion on the intricacies of international law. Rarely does a lawyer get the opportunity to deep dive into the “real world” particularly if the topic is fairly technical. I however had precisely that opportunity at the COE. The reach-back section provided me with technical details, data and simulations without which my research would have been rendered very theoretical. The practical knowledge, experience and expertise provided by the COE and its willingness to share that with their interns has made this experience invaluable.
During my time at the COE, I had the opportunity to attend many interesting events, allowing me to meet external experts further positively contributing to my research. I have participated in a workshop hosted by the faculty of law of Palacky University in Olomouc which focused on new developments in international law. Professor Faix, Dean of Law School also kindly provided some input and comments for my research. The fortunate timing of my internship allowed me to attend the Annual Conference of the COE as well as the HPAC Conference. Both of these events were very highly interesting not only from a technical point of view, but they also provided valuable insight into the preparation and organization of such events. Similarly, I was very happy to attend a portion of the first responder's course hosted by the COE. During this course, I was able to observe techniques and best practice strategies for CBRN incidents. Coincidentally I was also able to participate in an internal fire marshal training which is certainly a valuable skill to have. Finally, the most unique experience at the COE was the live agent training I was allowed to observe. Observing a training with live agents such as mustard gas is not an experience one can observe in many places.
Other than academic and professional enrichments I thoroughly enjoyed and benefitted from the many social activities I had the pleasure to attend. First and foremost, I discovered my passion for Yoga, a weekly physical activity that I warmly recommend to any new intern. Participating in the autumnal marching event and visiting a local sweets shop was a great introduction to the new area, similarly, the winter skiing was a great opportunity to see more of the natural beauties of the Czech Republic. Winter Evaluation provided a great opportunity to get to know my colleagues on a more personal level and once again enjoy the winter wonderland of the Czech mountains.
Personally, my internship at the COE in Vyskov had a nostalgic touch as I returned to the Czech Republic after having lived abroad for nearly 20 years. The location allowed me to reexplore Brno as well as some surrounding areas such as Austerlitz, Mikulov and Valtice. The COE welcomed me, supported me and allowed me to grow further as a person for which I am very grateful.
Author: Jitka Kranz
