Law graduates with experience or a demonstrated interest in international human-rights law can enter the 2027 Human Rights Essay Award organised by American University Washington College of Law.
Overview
The 2027 theme is Democracy, Human Rights and Participation. The competition selects one winner writing in English and one winner writing in Spanish. Each winner receives tuition support for the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law at American University.
The essay must be an unpublished piece of legal scholarship written solely by the applicant. Strong submissions may also receive publication consideration through the American University International Law Review.
Benefits
- Tuition Scholarship: Each language winner receives a full tuition scholarship for the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law.
- Study Options: The award may be used toward the Diploma or Certificate route for up to four programme courses.
- Programme Fees: Applicable application and administrative fees covered by the award are included.
- Publication Opportunity: Winning essays and selected honourable mentions may be considered for publication.
- Important Exclusion: Travel, accommodation, and daily living expenses are not covered.
Eligibility
- Law Degree: Applicants must hold a law degree.
- Experience or Interest: Applicants should demonstrate experience or a clear professional interest in international human-rights law.
- Topic: The essay must address the 2027 theme, Democracy, Human Rights and Participation.
- Originality: The essay must be unpublished and written solely by the applicant.
- Language: Entries may be submitted in English or Spanish under the competition’s rules.
How to Apply
- Deadline: Entries close on February 3, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Washington, D.C. time.
- Write the Essay: Prepare an original legal essay responding directly to the 2027 theme.
- Follow the Rules: Check the current word, citation, formatting, and document requirements before submission.
- Submit: Use the official Human Rights Essay Award submission process before the deadline.
