The American University Human Rights Essay Award 2025 is a fantastic opportunity for you! Hosted by the Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law at American University Washington College of Law, this annual award encourages the production of scholarly articles on critical human rights issues. The topic for 2025 is “Human Trafficking and Human Rights”, a pressing global concern that demands ongoing discussion and legal development.
This prestigious award not only recognizes your academic excellence but also offers you a chance to have your essay published in the American University International Law Review, a highly respected journal featuring legal research from scholars, judges, and practitioners. Moreover, winners receive a full tuition scholarship to attend the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law in Washington, D.C., where you can learn from over 40 internationally known human rights experts.
The essay competition is open to participants from all around the world, provided they hold a law degree such as a Juris Doctor (J.D.), Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.), or equivalent. You have the flexibility to choose any subject related to the main topic, allowing you to explore various aspects of human trafficking and its impact on human rights.
By participating, you not only contribute to the scholarly discourse on an urgent human rights issue but also have the chance to network with professionals, enhance your resume, and potentially make a real-world impact through your ideas and research.
Quick Overview of American University Human Rights Essay Award 2025
- Host Country: United States of America
- Host Institution: Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, American University Washington College of Law
- Deadline: February 3, 2025
- Program: Essay competition on “Human Trafficking and Human Rights”
- Value:
- Full tuition scholarship to the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law
- Opportunity for essay publication in the American University International Law Review
- Age Limit: No specific age limit
- Eligibility:
- Must hold a law degree (J.D., LL.B., or equivalent)
- Demonstrated experience or interest in international human rights law
Perks of the Human Rights Essay Competition 2025
- Winners receive a scholarship to attend the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, a three-week intensive course in Washington, D.C.
- Winning essays are eligible for publication in the American University International Law Review, giving you significant academic exposure.
- Engage with over 40 internationally known human rights scholars and activists.
- Opportunity to serve as judges in the Inter-American Human Rights Moot Court Competition.
- Choose any subject related to “Human Trafficking and Human Rights” for your essay.
Benefits of the Essay Award for Law Degree Holders 2025
- Deepen your understanding of human rights law through advanced studies.
- Learn from leading experts and practitioners in the field.
- Enhance your resume with a prestigious award and potential publication.
- Open doors to careers in international law, policy-making, and academia.
- Improve your research and legal writing skills.
- Develop critical thinking on complex human rights issues.
- Contribute to the global dialogue on human trafficking.
- Influence policy and legal frameworks to protect victims.
Eligibility Criteria of the Human Rights Essay Award
- Must hold a law degree (Juris Doctor, Bachelor of Laws, or equivalent).
- Demonstrated experience or interest in international human rights law.
- Original, unpublished legal essay in English or Spanish.
- Solely authored by the applicant.
- Must directly address “Human Trafficking and Human Rights”.
- Maximum 35 pages, including footnotes.
- Follow The Bluebook citation style.
- Only one essay per applicant.
- Past winners are not eligible to participate again.
Important Dates of the American University Essay Competition 2025
- Submission Deadline: February 3, 2025
- Winners Announcement: April 1, 2025
- Program Dates: May 26 – June 13, 2025 (Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law)
How to Apply to the Human Rights Essay Award at American University 2025
- Write an original essay on “Human Trafficking and Human Rights”.
- Ensure it meets all formatting and citation requirements.
- Access the form here.
- Fill in all required information accurately.
- Upload your essay in Word format.
- Submit a separate CV or resume (maximum three pages).
- After submission, email humanrightsessay@wcl.american.edu (no attachments) to inform them of your submission.
- You should receive a confirmation email within five business days.
- Keep an eye on your email and the official website for any announcements.
Required Documents for the Essay Competition in the USA 2025
- Unpublished Legal Essay: Must follow all specified guidelines. Written in English or Spanish.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: Maximum three pages. Highlight experience or interest in human rights law.
- Submission Confirmation Email: Email sent after submission to notify the Academy.
For more details or any questions, please contact the Academy at humanrightsessay@wcl.american.edu. Allow 48 to 72 business hours for responses.
For More Information and to Apply visit The American University Washington DC website.
