March 13-15, 2020

American Red Cross National Headquarters

Washington, D.C.

Testimonials from past participants

• "Participating in the Clara Barton was an amazing experience.  They really mean it when they say to take the law out of the books.  I’ve discussed these issues in my classes, but it was a completely different (and incredibly valuable) experience to present, debate, and discuss these issues in real-world settings.  I learned so much – not just from my own preparation, but from the other teams, judges, coaches, and speakers.  If you’re considering participating in the Clara Barton – do it!"

Carly Nuttall, American University Washington College of Law

• "It was an absolute honor to represent my school at the Clara Barton Competition.  I had an incredible experience and learned so much from my peers during the weekend.”

Ashlynn Kendzior, University of Minnesota School of Law

• “This area of the law has not been my focus in law school, nonetheless, the ability to negotiate effectively, think on my feet and collaborate with my team in high-stress situations are all skills that will serve me well in any practice. I cannot understate the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity like this to develop skills and expand your horizons."

Amanda Saber, Santa Clara School of Law

• "Santa Clara Law Students Reach Semifinals in International Humanitarian Law Competition in D.C."

The Clara Barton International Humanitarian Law Competition is a simulation-based, experiential legal competition designed to expose rising professionals to the practice of IHL and to real world challenges facing IHL practitioners during armed conflict.

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During the Competition, participants will engage in a variety of practical role-playing exercises, during which they will be asked to assume various professional roles and accomplish a wide range of tasks reflective of those performed by practitioners in the field. Unlike traditional moot court competitions, participants will explore the application of the law through fictional, but realistic case studies of armed conflict which continue to evolve throughout the Competition, offering participants a dynamic and creative atmosphere in which to explore complex legal issues.

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The Competition will test participants’ knowledge of international humanitarian law and public international law, as well as their ability to present, advocate for, and defend legal positions to a diverse range of stakeholders in different simulated environments.

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The Clara Barton IHL Competition is open to students currently pursuing Juris Doctor (J.D.), Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), or Master of Laws (LL.M.) degrees at law schools in North, Central, and South America, as well as students attending United States and Canadian military academies and institutions. While not required, prior study in public international law is highly recommended. Teams are composed of three individuals representing a single institution. Generally, only one team will be chosen to represent each institution, and participants will only be eligible to compete in one edition of the Clara Barton IHL Competition. The competition is done entirely in English, and all participants are expected to read, write, and speak English fluently.

Sponsors

2018 Competition

Judges observing final round.