Law of international financial institutions 2025

A comprehensive examination of the legal frameworks governing international financial institutions (IFIs) such as the African Development Bank, Bank for International Settlements, Group of 20, Financial Stability Board, International Monetary Fund, Paris Club, Trade and Development Bank, or the World Bank.

From a South African perspective, this fifteen-hour course especially examines the complex relationship between the IFIs and South Africa as one of Africa's largest and most influential economies. In recent years, the country has relied on support from these institutions to address issues like the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, energy challenges, and persistent inequality.

Participants will explore the legal foundations, governance structures, and the regulatory mechanisms through which these institutions operate. Through case studies, policy analysis, and critical discussions, participants will assess the impact of IFIs on the global financial system, developing countries, and international economic law. The course also explores current debates on IFI reforms and their role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty reduction, and financial crises.

When and where?

1 to 1 July 2025, 14:00 to 17:00 SAST

This course will be held remotely, most likely on Zoom.

Course outline

In this course, we will cover:

• The legal status and immunities of IFIs
• Decision-making processes and accountability structures
• Financial assistance mechanism and conditionality
• Sovereign debt restructuring and the role of IFIs crisis management
• The relationship between IFIs and international law, human rights and environmental concerns

Who will benefit from this course?

Legal practitioners, legal advisers, policymakers, economists, academics, researchers, and students with a focus on international and financial law as well as development aid.

Presenter

Dr Sebastian Krafzik is an expert in comparative business law, specifically corporate, banking, and finance. He studied law and economics at the Goethe University Frankfurt and has practical experience in financial supervision, having worked for the Financial Conduct Authority and the legal department of the Stock Exchange in Germany. Additionally, he has experience in investor protection and proxy advising from working in an international law firm.

Over the years, he has gained teaching experience with a focus on International Trade Law, Private International Law, Mercantile Law, Property Law, and Contract Law. Sebastian's involvement with African academia began when he was invited as a lecturer at the Catholic University of Malawi Faculty of Law.

How much?

R5,760 per person

Certificate

A digital certificate from UCT will be issued to those who attend the full course.

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