Students of the GIPA School of Law successfully competed in the regional round of the Helga Pedersen Moot Court Competition (HPMCC). The GIPA team was composed of undergraduate law students Mariam Kardava, Tamar Irtskhailashvili, and Nia Lichki. The team was coached by GIPA invited lecturer Tamta Shamatava.
HPMCC is the most prestigious moot court competition in Europe in the field of European human rights law and simulates proceedings before the European Court of Human Rights (Strasbourg Court). Its aim is to deepen students’ practical knowledge and professional skills in human rights law. This year, as part of its 14th edition, nearly 80 teams from leading universities across Europe participated. The competition consists of two stages: regional rounds held in three different European countries, and the international final rounds, in which the 18 best teams selected from the regional rounds compete. The final stage is traditionally held in Strasbourg, France.
The GIPA team competed in the Malta regional round alongside 22 teams from leading European universities. The round was held at the Courthouse in Valletta. This year’s hypothetical case addressed one of the most complex and pressing challenges - the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in criminal proceedings. The students worked on critical issues such as the compatibility of algorithmic decision-making with the right to a fair trial under Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
The GIPA team represented the university with distinction, demonstrated a high level of academic preparation, and successfully responded to questions posed by leading experts in the field. The team is currently preparing for the next round.
