RPNLU Prayagraj Announces 2nd International Debate Competition 2026; Registrations Open for Law Students Across India and Abroad

Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University (RPNLU), Prayagraj, through its Debate & Discussion Club, has announced the 2nd International Debate Competition 2026, inviting undergraduate law students from India and abroad to participate in one of the country's premier legal debating events. Scheduled to be held on 26 September 2026, the competition aims to provide a platform for budding legal minds to engage in rigorous discussions on contemporary issues of international law and global governance.

Following the success of its inaugural edition, which witnessed participation from 28 teams representing institutions across India and overseas, this year's competition promises wider international participation, a challenging debate format, and an attractive prize pool.

About Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University (RPNLU)

Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Prayagraj, is one of India's leading National Law Universities committed to excellence in legal education, research, advocacy, and public policy. Through academic initiatives, competitions, and interdisciplinary engagement, the University encourages students to develop strong analytical, advocacy, and leadership skills.

About the Competition

The 2nd International Debate Competition is being organised by the Debate & Discussion Club, RPNLU Prayagraj to promote critical legal thinking, persuasive advocacy, and meaningful discourse among law students from India and across the globe.

The event seeks to create a platform where participants can debate pressing international legal issues while sharpening their research, analytical, and public speaking skills.

Theme of the Competition

This year's debate will revolve around the motion:

"Economic Sanctions Have Become Instruments of Geopolitical Coercion Rather Than Lawful Measures Under International Law."

The motion invites participants to critically examine the legality, legitimacy, and geopolitical implications of economic sanctions within the framework of international law, diplomacy, and global politics.

Competition Format

The competition will follow the Classical Debate Format.

Each participating institution may nominate one team comprising two speakers, with:

• One speaker arguing for the motion, and
• One speaker arguing against the motion.

After the preliminary rounds, the top four teams will qualify for the Final Round.

For the final round, shortlisted teams will receive a fresh debate motion only 20 minutes before the debate, testing their spontaneity, legal reasoning, advocacy, and analytical skills.

Eligibility

Applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

• Open to undergraduate law students enrolled in recognised institutions in India and abroad.
• Each institution may nominate only one team consisting of two speakers.

Prize Pool

Participants will compete for prizes worth ₹75,000, including:

• Best Team: ₹50,000
• Runner-Up Team: ₹20,000
• Best Speaker: ₹5,000

Registration Fee

• ₹1,000 per team (Indian participants)
• USD 20 per team (International participants)

The registration fee is non-refundable and includes modest accommodation (subject to availability), meals, and stationery. Participants will bear their own travel expenses.

Important Dates

• Registration Opens: 11 July 2026
• Last Date to Register: 25 August 2026
• Announcement of Registered Teams: 30 August 2026
• Competition Date: 26 September 2026

Venue

Academic Block
Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University (RPNLU)
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh

How to Apply

Interested teams may register through the official Google Form before 25 August 2026.

Registration Link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSes7kDRBk3E-2trtTqEW5LjeeKXQqsuR4rcEDg0a-8_6c8UdA/viewform

Applicants are advised to keep a screenshot of the registration fee payment, as it must be uploaded while completing the registration form.

Contact Details

Email: ddc@rpnlup.ac.in

Phone: +91 86040 58142, +91 76519 54032

Law students interested in international law, constitutional debates, diplomacy, and public policy are encouraged to participate in this prestigious competition and showcase their advocacy skills on an international platform.

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