During the competition, no later than 10 days prior to the match, the software randomly assigns a curated debate statement following the theme of the round to 2 matched teams. Debate positions will be determined just before the start of the match.
The competition consists of several themes (ie 1 theme = 1 round of debate matches), whereas every match will be on a different debate statement.
Group Phase – Day 1
The contemporary social challenges shaping our modern society.
Group Phase – Day 2
The fight against the environmental emergency in a capitalist society.
Group Phase – Day 3
The exercise of political powers in democratic societies.
Elimination Phase – 1/8 Finals
The conflict between personal freedom and public health reignited by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Elimination Phase – 1/4 Finals
The search for an economic recovery in a fragile context.
Semi-Finals
The game of international relations: between sovereignty and cooperation.
Finals
The Regulatory challenge stemming from the development of new technologies.
Opening Ceremony THIULDT2022
Below you will a selection from some of the past themes of The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament (6 past editions), each with an example of one debate statement.
Theme: Internet and Law
“What is illegal to say offline, must be illegal to say online” (from the President of the European Commission Mrs Von der Leyen).
Theme: Amazonia
Europe must support Brazil and the protection of Amazonia using International Law
Theme: Citizens’ rights
Every Constitution must be limited only to the rights of the citizens.
Theme: Democracy
Participative democracy (like Switzerland and its referenda) is the future model of democracy around the world.
Theme: Medical Use of Drugs
Medical cannabis must be legalised by state authorities.
Theme: Animal Law
The use of animals for entertainment purposes must be banned.
Theme: Natural Areas
Economic exploitation of protected natural areas should be prohibited.
Theme: Public Order
Online control of information is serving the need for public order.
Theme: Positive Discrimination
Men and Women must be equally represented in the public sector, specifically in the senior public service.
Theme: State Sovereignty
The right for a state to intervene in the internal affairs of another state must be allowed in cases of human rights issues.
Theme: Freedom of Press
The freedom of the press is compatible with respect for privacy.
Theme: Law and Society
The law follows the evolution of society and does not make it evolve
Theme: Solidarity
During the pandemic, football players must accept a reduction of their salaries.