National movements for justice and democracy are often led by youth: Law Adviser

Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul praised the heroic role of the country's youth during the July uprising, saying they have always been at the forefront of any justice and democracy movement in the country.

On Friday, he inaugurated the Sixth Jessup Workshop at the capital's BRAC University Campus.

The Sixth Jessup Workshop, "May it Please the Court: The Case Concerning the Craft of Jessup Advocacy", was organised by 'Jessup Bangladesh' and the International Law Students Association (ILSA) in collaboration with the US Department of Justice, Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training (USDOJ-OPDAT), School of Law, BRAC University, and Hearth Bangladesh.

The workshop is intended to improve advocacy skills and prepare students to compete successfully in the 10th Bangladesh Qualifying Rounds of the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition (Jessup). Jessup is known as the World Cup of Mooting.

Serra Tsethlikai, resident legal advisor of the US Embassy in Dhaka; Dr Dave Dowland, registrar of BRAC University; Md Mostafa Hosain, assistant professor of the School of Law at BRAC University; Nuran Choudhury, national coordinator of the International Law Students Association (ILSA); Porob Naser Siddique, executive director of Hearth Bangladesh; and Maimuna Syed Ahmed, national administrator of Jessup Bangladesh, were also present at the event's inaugural session.

The law adviser stated, "I'd like to acknowledge something profoundly important: the July uprising. I remember the heroic role that the country's university students played in that great revelation. Actually, it is not a new phenomenon. The youth of this country have always led the movement for justice and democracy in Bangladesh."

"Today, as they gather here, they continue to demonstrate that they are capable not only of defending rights under this treaty but also of advocating for justice in the courtroom and on the global stage," he said.

He also stated, "In a world where international law influences diplomacy, economic relations, trade, human rights, and climate action, its significance for Bangladesh cannot be overstated." This year, 52 universities are taking part in this event, reflecting the nation's enthusiasm for learning about and debating international law. Jessup Bangladesh is now the world's third largest Jessup qualifying competition. This achievement demonstrates the dedication of our students, coaches, organisers, and the vibrant moot court society."

"Jesseup is more than just a competition. It cultivates rigorous research skills, clear writing, persuasive advocacy, and effective teamwork. "These are the characteristics of a strong legal mind and responsible global citizens," Dr Asif Nazrul continued.

Later, wishing all participants courage, clarity, and confidence, he expressed hope that the workshop would sharpen their skills and strengthen their commitment to justice and the rule of law.

This year's Bangladesh Qualifying Rounds featured students and academics from 52 law schools, making it the world's third largest qualifying round and the largest in South Asia.