The United Nations Programme of Asststance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law was established by General Assembly resolution 2099 (XX) of 20 December 1965 to contribute to a better knowledge of international law “as a means for strengthening international peace and security and promoting friendly relations and co-operation among States”. It is one of the cornerstones of the efforts of the United Nations to promote international law.

The Codification Division of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs is responsible for the implementation of the Programme of Assistance.

The Codification Division created the Audiovisual Library of International Law under the Programme of Assistance to give the United Nations the capacity to provide high quality international law training and research materials to an unlimited number of recipients around the world. The Audiovisual Library is a virtual training and research centre which aims to enhance the dissemination and wider appreciation of international law. It also performs a unique and invaluable function by preserving in a vivid and informative manner the audiovisual heritage of legal developments within the United Nations system and promoting a greater awareness of the unparalleled legacy of the United Nations in the codification and progressive development of international law.