How you can benefit from joining ELSA.
Bethany Melaku Game (International Business Law LLM, 2024) who works on the Committee for the National Chapter, ELSA UK outlines the benefits of joining this organisation: “ ELSA is where everyone with an interest in law should be. If you are searching for a community, academic growth, and professional work experience, then ELSA is the network for you!
ELSA is the European Law Students’ Association, the largest international network of law students, boasting over 52,000 members across 44 countries and over 350 law faculties. ELSA United Kingdom, is the national arm overseeing 18 local groups situated within some of the highest ranking law faculties in the United Kingdom.
The primary objective of ELSA is to facilitate the academic and professional development of law students through a variety of flagship initiatives, ranging from competitions, delegation opportunities, and paid internships. With key academic and institutional partners, notably the Council of Europe and the Queen Mary School of Law, the ELSA network works to positively impact law students and young professionals.
Flagship international competitions that ELSA organises include the Helga Pedersen Moot Court Competition, a Human Rights moot that simulates procedures of complaint before the European Court of Human Rights. Finalists will have the opportunity to moot at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. The John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition is an international moot on WTO law, with participants competing to plead at the WTO Headquarters in Geneva.
ELSA Law Schools will see you travelling abroad for short courses on specific legal subjects that aren’t always taught in schools. With Winter and Summer cycles, Law schools give you the opportunity to travel, meet like minded students and increase your knowledge.
ELSA Delegations is an opportunity through ELSA, in which members can apply to represent ELSA at working sessions of international organisations. It is a unique opportunity for members in terms of personal and professional growth to take part in international decision making, acquire a legal background on specific topics, and network with leading lawyers and diplomats. Delegations can take you to the Council of Europe, the United Nations, and the World Intellectual Property Organisation.
ELSA Traineeships enable members to gain practical and paid legal work experience while living in another country. With internships available across all educational levels, Traineeships help members gain valuable learning experiences that can help develop their careers.
ELSA Legal Research Groups are an additional opportunity to carry out impactful legal research and get published. By working with a committed team of members across the ELSA network, you will not only have the opportunity to develop your research skill and forage into academia, but also create important resources for students and professionals.
Though these Flagship opportunities occur throughout the year, there are still more opportunities to play a more present role. The National and International Council Meetings are your chance to travel and meet fellow ELSA members from other Groups. Additionally, you can connect with ELSA UK members through the ELSA UK Community LinkedIn Group to build your network."
Join ELSA UK now for access to these exclusive opportunities, and to find your community. Visit ELSA website to learn more..