Law Adviser says young people have always been at the forefront of national movements, driving the struggle for justice and democracy

Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul today praised the courageous role of the country’s young people during the July uprising, noting that the youth have always taken the lead whenever Bangladesh has faced a struggle for justice and democracy.

He made the remarks while inaugurating the Sixth Jessup Workshop at BRAC University’s campus in the capital.

The workshop, titled “May it Please the Court: The Case Concerning the Craft of Jessup Advocacy,” was organised by ‘Jessup Bangladesh’ and the International Law Students Association (ILSA) in partnership with the US Department of Justice’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training (USDOJ-OPDAT), BRAC University’s School of Law, and Hearth Bangladesh.

Designed to strengthen advocacy skills, the workshop aims to prepare students for the 10th Bangladesh Qualifying Rounds of the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition — widely regarded as the “World Cup of mooting.”

The inaugural session was attended by Serra Tsethlikai, resident legal advisor at the US Embassy in Dhaka; Dr Dave Dowland, registrar of BRAC University; Md Mostafa Hosain, assistant professor at the School of Law, BRAC University; Nuran Choudhury, national coordinator of ILSA; Porob Naser Siddique, executive director of Hearth Bangladesh; and Maimuna Syed Ahmed, national administrator of Jessup Bangladesh.

Reflecting on the July uprising, Dr Nazrul said: “I fondly recall the heroic role played by our university students during that historic moment. In truth, this is nothing new — the youth of this nation have always stood at the forefront of Bangladesh’s movements for justice and democracy.”

He added that as the participants gather for the workshop, they continue to show they are capable not only of defending rights at home but also of advocating for justice in the courtroom and on the global stage.

Highlighting the growing importance of international law in areas such as diplomacy, trade, human rights, and climate action, he noted that 52 universities are participating this year, reflecting a strong nationwide interest in learning and debating international law. “Jessup Bangladesh is now the third-largest Jessup qualifying competition in the world,” he said, calling it a testament to the dedication of students, coaches, organisers, and the thriving moot court community.

Describing Jessup as more than a competition, Dr Nazrul said it cultivates rigorous research, clear writing, persuasive advocacy, and effective teamwork — qualities essential for strong legal minds and responsible global citizens.

Wishing participants courage, clarity, and confidence, he expressed hope that the workshop would sharpen their skills and deepen their commitment to justice and the rule of law.

With students and academics from 52 law schools taking part, this year’s Bangladesh Qualifying Rounds are the third-largest globally and the largest in South Asia.