In order to provide law students with an opportunity to gain practical experience in the field, the European Law Students’ Association (ELSA), has launched the 12th edition of the Helga Pedersen Moot Court Competition in cooperation with the Council of Europe. 

The competition, which simulates the procedure of complaints to the European Court of Human Rights, is open to teams of 2-4 students coming from the same university.

Eligibility

Students should be from ELSA countries as well as from countries that are members of the Council of Europe.

 

How it works

The simulation of a court trial is often divided into two phases: the written phase and the oral phase. The best 18 teams will compete in the final oral round at the European final at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France.

There is an initial participation fee of € 100 per participant as well as the Regional Round fee. Accommodation and travel costs to the Regional Round are not covered by the participation fee.

 

Prizes

Each member of the winning team will win the Council of Europe prize and they will be awarded a one-month traineeship at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.

The Best Overall Orator will be awarded with a traineeship at the Council of Europe Liaison Office with the European Union in Brussels.

 

Deadlines

15 November 2023, 23:59 CET, for teams to register;

11 December 2023, 23:59 CET, for written submission.

 

Find out more here.