A team of students from the Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) Law School participated in the 14th Edition of the Helga Pedersen Moot Court Competition (HPMCC), held from 23 to 25 February in Birmingham, United Kingdom. The Competition is considered one of the most significant academic events in Europe dedicated to the practical study of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the procedures of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR).
The MRU team consisted of Olena Leshchenko and Magda Khalvashi, students of the joint master’s programme in European and International Business Law, and was led by their coach, PhD Candidate Ivan Sukhorukov. The University is proud of the students, who successfully represented MRU on the international stage and demonstrated a high level of academic preparation and advocacy skills.
About the Competition and Its Significance
The Helga Pedersen Moot Court Competition is organised annually by the European Law Students’ Association (ELSA). The Competition gives students the opportunity to apply their knowledge of human rights law in practice by simulating real cases before the European Court of Human Rights. Participants prepare written submissions for both parties to the case and later compete in Regional Oral Rounds, where they present their arguments to experts in human rights law. The best teams advance to the Final Oral Round in Strasbourg, held at the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights.
The Competition is distinguished by its exceptional academic value – members of the winning team are awarded a traineeship at the European Court of Human Rights, making participation an important step in a future legal career.
This Year’s Case Topic
The case of the 14th Edition, Orwell v. Valdora, examined complex fair-trial issues related to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in criminal proceedings. Participants analysed a scenario in which the prosecution relied on a state-developed artificial intelligence system called “Orion,” claiming 96.4% accuracy. The discussion focused on the lack of transparency, limited access to the system’s data, possible identity-forgery scenarios using deepfake technologies, and differing expert opinions regarding the reliability of AI-generated evidence. Teams were required to assess the relationship between technological advancement and the fundamental guarantees of the right to a fair trial.
Academic Challenge and Practical Experience
The case addressed a complex legal issue – the compatibility of AI-generated evidence with the right to a fair trial.
“The case required us to analyse a dispute concerning AI evidence and its compatibility with the European Convention on Human Rights,” explains Olena Leshchenko. According to her, preparing the arguments required detailed analysis of ECtHR case-law, comparison of precedents, and the development of arguments grounded in factual circumstances.
During the oral rounds, the team competed against strong international opponents.
“Competing against teams such as those from the Universities of Birmingham and Utrecht strengthened our advocacy skills and our ability to respond to complex questions from judges,” says Magda Khalvashi. She emphasises that intensive judicial questioning required quick thinking, reliance on Strasbourg jurisprudence, and clear substantiation of their position.
A Long Preparation Process
Preparation for the Competition lasted about six months and included research, drafting written submissions, and intensive training.
“The consistent work of our coach Ivan was essential throughout the entire preparation period,” notes Olena Leshchenko, adding that comments from MRU Assoc. Professor dr. Remigijus Jokubauskas also made an important contribution by strengthening their arguments.
The students also highlight the importance of teamwork.
“Close cooperation allowed us to critically test our arguments and maintain consistency in both written and oral submissions,” says Olena Leshchenko. Meanwhile, Magda Khalvashi stresses the broader value of the experience:
“This Competition significantly contributed to my academic growth and the development of my practical legal skills.”
MRU Support
The students emphasise that their participation in the Competition was made possible by the academic and financial support provided by Mykolas Romeris University. The University consistently encourages student engagement in international academic activities, strengthening their professional competencies and opening opportunities in the global legal arena.
Read more about the students’ feedback here.
