2026 Human Rights Essay Award: Call for SubmissionsAcademy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law | Washington College of Law Exploring the Right to Protest under International Human Rights Law The Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law at American University Washington College of Law has announced the 2026 Human Rights Essay Award, inviting submissions from legal scholars and practitioners around the world. This prestigious annual competition encourages the production of high-quality academic research in the field of international human rights law. The 2026 topic is:“The Right to Protest under International Human Rights Law: Legal Protection and Challenges Ahead.” Participants are invited to submit original legal essays that critically examine this topic from diverse perspectives, offering fresh insights into the protection of the right to protest in democratic societies. About the 2026 Theme The right to protest is a cornerstone of democratic participation and a fundamental element of international human rights law. Despite its universal recognition, many countries continue to impose unlawful restrictions on this right, often under the guise of national security, public order, or political control. The Academy’s chosen theme reflects the growing global concern over these limitations and the need to strengthen legal protections that safeguard peaceful assembly and expression. Participants are encouraged to explore: Domestic and international legal frameworks governing protest rights. Criminal and administrative laws that impact the exercise of this right. Redress and accountability mechanisms available to victims of unlawful restrictions or repression. Socio-political and structural factors contributing to violations of protest rights. Comparative legal perspectives highlighting best practices and areas for reform. The topic will also feature prominently at the 31st Inter-American Human Rights Moot Court Competition (May 18–22, 2026). The Academy has partnered with Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights to develop a complex, cutting-edge case addressing the right to protest in contemporary contexts. Essay participants will also be eligible to serve as judges in this moot court event. The Purpose of the Award Through the Human Rights Essay Award, the Academy aims to: Promote advanced scholarship in international human rights and humanitarian law. Encourage legal research that strengthens the protection of fundamental freedoms. Build global awareness around emerging challenges to civil and political rights. Support the development of innovative, rights-based approaches to protest regulation. This initiative contributes to the Academy’s broader mission of fostering education, critical dialogue, and the creation of stronger legal frameworks that uphold justice and equality under international law. About the Award and Prizes Two winners will be selected: One for the best essay in English One for the best essay in Spanish Each winner will receive a full tuition scholarship to the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law at American University, covering either the Diploma or Certificate of Attendance option. (Note: travel, housing, and per diem expenses are not included.) Additionally: The two winning essays, along with four honorable mentions, may be published in the American University International Law Review, one of the most respected academic journals in the field. This publication opportunity allows emerging legal scholars to share their work alongside contributions from judges, lawyers, professors, and human rights experts worldwide. The Academy reserves the right to hold the 2026 Program or any of its courses virtually should exceptional circumstances arise. Eligibility Requirements Applicants must meet the following criteria: Hold a law degree (J.D., LL.B., or equivalent). Demonstrate experience or strong interest in international human rights law. Submit an academic legal article directly related to the 2026 theme: The right to protest under international human rights law: legal protection and challenges ahead. Ensure the essay includes proper legal citations and source references in accordance with academic standards. Essays that do not directly address the announced topic will be disqualified. Participants are reminded that the Academy interprets international human rights law broadly, encompassing international humanitarian law and international criminal law. Important Dates Submission Deadline: February 3, 2026 Winners Announced: April 1, 2026 Participants are encouraged to submit early to avoid last-minute technical issues. Distinction from the LL.M. Program The Human Rights Essay Award is an independent project of the Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law and is not linked to the LL.M. application process. Those interested in pursuing an LL.M. degree should refer to the program’s dedicated application portal and follow all required procedures as outlined on the official Washington College of Law website. How to Learn More and Contact Information For full award regulations, eligibility details, and submission instructions, participants can visit the official Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law webpage. For inquiries, contact:Email: humanrightsessay@wcl.american.edu(Please allow 48–72 business hours for a response.) Continuing the Tradition of Human Rights Scholarship For over three decades, the Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law has played a leading role in advancing education, dialogue, and research in the field of human rights. Through initiatives such as the Human Rights Essay Award, the Academy continues to empower legal scholars and practitioners to confront global challenges, propose innovative solutions, and strengthen the protection of human dignity worldwide. The 2026 Human Rights Essay Award is more than a competition—it is a platform to contribute to the ongoing global conversation about the right to protest, accountability, and the future of democratic freedoms under international law. Participants are invited to join this important dialogue, submit their work, and help shape the next generation of human rights thought and advocacy. For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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