On 2 June the Red Cross/AULSS sponsored International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Moot Competition Grand Final was undertaken. Acting for the Prosecution were Ms Alexandra Lontos and Mr Patrick Leeson and acting for the Defence were Ms Sarah Ahern and Ms Desislava Gancheva. The Judges for the event were Ms Stacey Henderson, Dr Rebecca LaForgia and Associate Professor Dale Stephens. The event witnessed a huge turnout of spectators and supporters.
International Humanitarian Law deals with the law applicable in armed conflict and seeks to balance military goals with humanitarian priorities. The 1949 Geneva Conventions, which form the backbone of this body of law, are unique in having been ratified by every country on earth. The vast majority of States have also ratified the subsequent 1977 Additional Protocols.
The competition this year was fierce and the standard of advocacy throughout the competition was exemplary. 24 teams competed in the 2014 competition, a significant increase from the numbers the year before. The moot problem used this year involved a consideration of numerous IHL issues including those of civilian protection and its loss through direct participation in hostilities, the definition of military objective, precautionary measures, proportionality analysis and the question of autonomous weapons systems and their compliance with the laws applicable to armed conflict.
The winning team this year was that of Sarah Ahern and Desislava Gancheva. Ms Petra Ball, the IHL officer of the SA Red Cross, awarded certificates to the winners and runners up. Both Sarah and Desi will now represent Adelaide University at the forthcoming ALSA IHL Moot competition in Brisbane.
Back Row: Ms Petra Ball (SA Red Cross), Ms Stacey Henderson, A/Prof Dale Stephens, Dr Rebecca LaForgia
Front Row: Ms Desislava Gancheva, Ms Sarah Ahern, Ms Alexandra Lontos, Mr Patrick Leeson and Ms Priya Pavri (AULSS President).
Ms Sarah Ahern and Ms Desi Gancheva with their Red Cross certificates together with Associate Professor Dale Stephens.