The 24th Red Cross International Humanitarian Law Moot (Asia-Pacific Region) Concludes Successfully Handong International Law School Crowned Champion

Throughout the competition, participating teams took turns to act as counsel for the prosecution and the defendant before a simulated International Criminal Court, presenting arguments in a hypothetical case. This year's moot problem addressed a topic of growing concern within the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement: armed conflict triggered by resource disputes between two nations. The case involved military tactics employed by one side's leader, including forced conscription, intentional starvation, and the use of explosive weapons without adequately distinguishing between civilians and combatants—thereby exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Participants grappled with complex questions of accountability under IHL, including potential war crimes charges against the leader.

The competition featured over 50 professionals from the Asia-Pacific region serving as judges, including former judges of the Supreme Court, defence force officers, government officials, practicing lawyers, academics, and legal advisors from the International Committee of the Red Cross. They offered insightful questions and professional feedback, that helped participants deepen their understanding of the complexities of IHL and its application in real-world scenarios.

The award ceremony featured Dr James Ding, JP, Law Officer (International Law) of International Law Division from Department of Justice, as the Guest of Honour. Dr Ding noted that the Red Cross IHL Moot, since its inception in Hong Kong in 2003, has grown into one of the most distinguished competitions in the Asia-Pacific region. The competition has not only promoted the core values of international humanitarian law among a new generation of legal scholars and practitioners, but has also provided a platform for universities across the region to deepen their understanding of IHL through meaningful exchanges. Dr Ding also highlighted that the competition aligns with the Department of Justice's policy initiative to position Hong Kong as a capacity-building hub for international legal talents, and expressed gratitude to the organizers for hosting this meaningful event.

Beyond the intense competition, a series of concurrent events were arranged, including a tour at the Humanitarian Education Centre at the Hong Kong Red Cross Headquarters, a Keynote Seminar with a topic of “International Humanitarian Law and the Challenges of Contemporary Armed Conflicts”, and a Red Cross Humanitarian Work Career Talk, offering participants broader insights into humanitarian work and the practice of IHL.