About the Media Law Moot Court

Monroe E. Price Media Law Moot Court Competition

The Bonavero Institute of Human Rights at the University of Oxford organises the Monroe E. Price Media Law Moot Court Competition, which encourage students worldwide to engage with issues surrounding freedom of expression and the role of media and information technologies in society. This prestigious annual competition challenges students to conduct comparative research on legal standards across national, regional, and international levels. Participants prepare written and oral arguments on timely topics in media and information, communication and technology (ICT) law. The competition currently spans six Regional Rounds with a final, international round at the University of Oxford.

Freedom of expression remains a vital part of any catalogue of fundamental rights and as such presents itself as a cornerstone of democratic societies. Through this moot court, students gain valuable hands-on experience tackling complex legal questions related to this vital concept.

 

What to expect

Each year, a team of 2-6 students represents the University of Vienna in this esteemed competition. Together, they work on a unique case, released each fall, that involves both written and oral phases. Teams draft detailed written memorials for both applicant and respondent, with a submission deadline typically in December. After submitting their memorials, they proceed to the European Regional Rounds, where oral pleadings are held. In recent years, these rounds have taken place in Paris in February. The top teams then qualify for the international rounds at the University of Oxford, usually held in April.

 

Why should you participate?

  • Competing against international teams and perfecting your legal English skills
  • Gaining practical experience in applying the law
  • Deepening your understanding of a fundamental right, which is essential for a democratic society
  • Working on current, relevant legal issues and an interesting case
  • Boosting your CV by joining an internationally recognized moot court
  • Earning credit as an elective course and writing your thesis/seminar paper in this moot court

 

Creditable for

  • One Diploma Seminar Paper
  • Bachelor Thesis
  • Competence in a Foreign Language for Specific Purpose (Fachspezifische Fremdsprachenkompetenz)
  • Fundamental and Human Rights - Elective Area (Grund- und Menschenrechte – Wahlbereich)
  • Technology Law - Elective Area (Technologierecht – Wahlbereich)
  • Elective Module (Wahlfach)

 

How to apply?

Find more information on the application process here.

 

Information Event

An online information session will be held in summer 2025 for interested students. Details will be available on the Department’s social media channels.

For more information, visit the Price Media Law Moot Court website. You can also learn more in our Moot Probe episode on the Price Media Law Moot Court here.