What issues are we looking at this year?

In 2008, the moot will focus on alleged crimes against humanity, genocide, recruitment of child soldiers and the misuse of Red Cross protective emblems in a conflict between two hypothetical countries.

Why is the competition organised?

The competition aims to provide high school students with an opportunity to engage with aspects of International Humanitarian Law in the setting of a courtroom.

How is the competition run?

Students are provided with training in international humanitarian law and legal advocacy, and then compete in a mock court. The mock courts are judged by senior law students, solicitors, barristers and judges.

In preparation students are provided with written materials including 'how-to' guides, the option to attend a number of seminars, and a designated mentor who will be contactable to answer any questions. However, it is preferable that each team is guided by a teacher from their school acting as a coach.

Upon registration teams will be provided with the following resources to assist the students in their preparation for the competition:

Who can enter the competition?

The competition is aimed at senior high school students (years 11 and 12), particularly those with an interest in legal studies, history, politics, current affairs, debating or public speaking.

Schools are invited to register teams of two to four students to participate in the general rounds, and compete for a position in the semi-final and final rounds.

When and where is the competition being held?

The competition will be run over Saturday and Sunday 13-14 September at The University of Queensland. The Grand Final will be held in the Queensland Courts on the evening of Wednesday 17 September before Justice McMurdo, President of the Queensland Court.

Are there any costs associated with registration?

The cost of registering a team is $20 for each team member and team coach, and will be used to cover catering and stationery expenses.

How and when do I have to register?

Registration is open now! Complete the registration form and return with payment by either:

1. Post    IHL Moot Organisers
              c/o IHL Officer
              Red Cross Queensland
              PO BOX 1822
              Milton QLD 4064

2. Fax     ATT: IHL Officer on 07 3367 7444

The deadline for registration is Friday 20 June 2008.

Will registration be accepted after this date?

Registrations after this date may be accepted, however teams will have less time to research and prepare as the moot problem will be released on Monday 23 June.

For more information please contact:

Anna Homan ahoman@redcross.org.au or
David Anthony qldihl@redcross.org.au

Additional resources:

• Exploring Humanitarian Law website designed for teachers and students.