Claw & Order: Environmental Moot Court Competition
The High Court of Malawi recently opened its doors for the finals of our Wildlife Justice Moot Competition, where four bright young legal minds from the Environmental Justice and Sustainability Clinic at the University of Malawi tackled one of today’s most urgent challenges: illegal wildlife trafficking.
The mock case focused on alleged trafficking of pangolins and elephant ivory, pushing competitors to grapple with the National Parks and Wildlife Act, constitutional protections, and international obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which aims to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species.
The students argued with passion on both sides, demonstrating impressive research, exceptional written and oral advocacy, and a depth of legal analysis. Their strong grasp of conservation and environmental law was evident, as was their adherence to courtroom etiquette. The bench was particularly impressed with their ability to navigate complex questions on evidentiary burdens, statutory interpretation, and the protection of human rights in the context of criminal investigations.
Beyond sharpening litigation and research skills, the moot affirmed Malawi’s commitment to protect its unique natural heritage as well as our confidence in the next generation of legal practitioners and their commitment to safeguarding Malawi’s biodiversity.
We were excited to have honourable judges from the high court volunteer their time to preside over the mock trial in addition to support from academic mentors and the University of Malawi student organising committee for their dedication and expertise. We are also grateful to the UK Government, through their Biodiversity Challenge Funds, for supporting our nature crime programme.
