CONFERENCE
From March 26 to April 10, the final rounds of the 2025 Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, the world’s largest public international law moot court, took place in Washington, D.C., USA. The University of Latvia Faculty of Law team proudly represented Latvia on the international stage.
The team consisted of Roberts Gusts, Baiba Kūle, Viktorija Gilberte, and Elīna Sintija Lapiņa. During the competition, the students simulated proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), addressing pressing issues in international law, including jurisdiction, immunity of state officials and property, and the impact of sea level rise on territorial sovereignty.
The team achieved three victories—defeating the teams of Bulgaria, Ecuador, and Mongolia—and earned a hard-fought and honorable loss against Harvard University (with a 2:1 judges’ decision). Out of nearly 800 teams from approximately 100 countries, the University of Latvia team placed 56th globally. Notably, Roberts Gusts was ranked as the 74th best oralist out of 520 participants.
The team extends its heartfelt thanks to coach Māris Lejnieks for his invaluable support and dedication—both during the intensive months-long preparation process and throughout the competition, offering guidance and encouragement at every step.
Special thanks also go to former Jessup participants Anrijs Šimkus, Agneta Rumpa, Elīna Vītola, Gabriela Šantare, Ivars Stankevičs, and Jūlija Jerņeva for their insightful advice and inspiration during the team’s preparation.
Finally, the team expresses its gratitude to the University of Latvia Faculty of Law for its trust and support, which enabled them to proudly represent both the University and Latvia at this prestigious international forum.
We are proud of our students’ achievements and their contribution to promoting the name of the University of Latvia Faculty of Law on the global stage!
