Monash Law Shines at The Hague Inter-University Law Debate
Monash Law made a historic debut at the 7th edition of The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament (THIULDT) 2024, securing impressive accolades and recognition on the global stage. Joel Law, a fourth-year LLB/Arts student, alongside Michael Tan, a sixth-year LLB/Commerce student, represented Monash and emerged as standout performers throughout the competition.
The tournament, organised annually by the Corax Foundation, featured a diverse array of 64 teams from prestigious institutions worldwide. Held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual components, THIULDT included rigorous debates on pressing international legal issues across its English and French divisions.
Watch Joel Law's video diary from the 7th edition of The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament (THIULDT) 2024.
Joel Law wins Best Oralist at The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament 2024
Joel Law's exceptional oratory skills distinguished him as the Best Oralist of the entire tournament, a remarkable achievement underscoring Monash Law's competitive edge in international law debates. The team's journey to success was marked by victories in all three preliminary rounds, positioning them as frontrunners in their division. Their commanding performance continued into the Octo-Finals and Quarter-Finals, where they triumphed over esteemed opponents including King's College London and the University of Melbourne.
Joel Law demonstrates his Best Oralist skills at the 7th edition of The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament (THIULDT) 2024.
In the highly anticipated Semi-Finals, Monash University faced a formidable challenge from the University of Lusaka, narrowly missing out on advancing to the Grand Finals by a mere point. Undeterred, Joel and Michael regrouped for the 3rd/4th-Placing Match, where they engaged in a thought-provoking debate on the establishment of an international registry for beneficial ownership information to combat money laundering.
The University of Lusaka went on to become the overall champion of the 7th edition of The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament 2024.
Joel Law and Michael Tan regrouped for the 3rd/4th-Placing match, where they engaged in a thought-provoking debate.
The the intellectual rigour required for international mooting and debating
Reflecting on the tournament's significance, Michael Tan highlighted the intellectual rigour required to tackle complex topics ranging from human rights enforcement in sports to cyber treaties and the Responsibility to Protect doctrine. The competition demanded rigorous research and analysis of international legal frameworks, enriching their understanding of contemporary legal issues.
Michael Tan presents his team's thought provoking debate at the 7th edition of The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament (THIULDT) 2024.
“All the topics were current topical issues in private and public international law,” observed Michael.
“This competition required us to engage with a range of primary and secondary sources, such as UN reports and regional courts’ case law which deepened our understanding of private and public international law.”
Monash Law students Joel Law and Michael Tan with their formidable Semi Final opponents the University of Lusaka who went on to become the overall champion of the 7th edition of The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament 2024.
The additional benefits of international mooting and debating competitions
Beyond the intense debates, participants were immersed in The Hague's legal environment through visits to prestigious institutions such as the Peace Palace, the International Criminal Court, and the Kosovo Specialist Chambers. The opportunity to observe a trial at the ICC involving allegations of crimes against humanity further underscored the practical relevance of their academic pursuits.
Monash Law student Joel Law with His Excellency Dr Greg French, Ambassador of Australia to the Kingdom of The Netherlands.
Joel and Michael expressed profound gratitude to their mentors at Monash University, including Interim Dean of the Law Faculty, Professor Marilyn Pittard. They also acknowledged the invaluable training received under the LAW4805 Mooting and Advocacy Competition from their teacher and mentor William Lye OAM KC. The team also thanked Associate Professor Jacqui Horan, for her unwavering support and guidance in honing their advocacy skills through LAW4310 Trial Practice and Advocacy.
Monash Law students Joel Law and Michael Tan at the Peace Palace which houses the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, The Hague Academy of International Law and the Peace Palace Library.
As Monash University celebrates its debut success at THIULDT 2024, Joel, Michael, and their supporters look forward to continuing their journey of excellence in international law and advocacy, inspired by their enriching experience in The Hague.