About UNIDROIT

The International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) is an independent intergovernmental Organisation with its seat in the Villa Aldobrandini in Rome.

Its purpose is to study needs and methods for modernising, harmonising and co-ordinating private and in particular commercial law as between States and groups of States and to formulate uniform law instruments, principles and rules to achieve those objectives.

Membership of UNIDROIT is restricted to States acceding to the UNIDROIT Statute. India is also a member to UNIDROIT.

Theme of the Competition

To mark the historic occasion of the Institute’s 100th anniversary, this year’s competition focuses on the theme: “Harmonising Private Law and Shaping the Future – 100 Years of UNIDROIT‘s Impact.”

Participants are encouraged to explore the legacy and future of legal harmonisation through one of two categories:

  • Category A: Historical review and analysis of UNIDROIT’s earlier academic studies. A submission in this category should examine a study of choice and analyse its influence on the evolution of its respective legal field over the past century.
  • Category B: Future-looking analysis identifying legal gaps in transnational private and commercial law and proposing new areas for harmonisation. In their essay, participants should provide a focused, evidence-based academic argument for a specific way forward or recommendation for private law reform, taking into account the work of other international organisations.

Eligibility

  • Competition is open to law students, graduates, researchers, and junior legal professionals (with less than five years of legal practice) of any nationality.
  • Participants at advanced stages of their careers and tenured academics are not eligible.

Submission Guidelines

Essays should be written in English or French and range between 2,000 and 3,000 words, excluding footnotes and references.

Prizes

The top five essays will be awarded as follows:

  • 1st Position: 2,500 EUR + Publication opportunities
  • 2nd Position: 1,500 EUR + Publication opportunities
  • 3rd Position: 500 EUR + Publication opportunities
  • 4th and 5th Position: Publication opportunities

Winners will also present their research during a dedicated online webinar organised to celebrate the competition and its contributions.

Contact Details

For any questions, please contact info@unidroitfoundation.org.

Click here to submit!

Click here for the official notification!

Picture Source :