Two Geneva Academy Teams Will Participate in the Prestigious Jean-Pictet Competition

Eva is enrolled in our MAS in Transitional Justice, Human Rights and the Rule of Law.

After obtaining a bachelor's degree in general law, Eva pursued a master's in international and European criminal law. During her academic journey, she engaged in the Claude Lombois Moot Court Competition, revealing her passion for oral argumentation. Before joining us, she gained first-hand experience by completing internships with a human rights advocacy NGO in Togo and at the International Criminal Court.

‘I am grateful to participate in the Jean Pictet Competition. This experience aligns seamlessly with my previous endeavours and is particularly relevant to my future professional plans.’

Yasmeen, enrolled in our MAS in Transitional Justice, Human Rights and the Rule of Law, kick-started her academic journey at the University of Exeter where she earned a bachelor's degree in law. Eager to explore the complexities of global legal systems, she then pursued a master's in international law and governance at the University of Durham, broadening her understanding of international legal mechanisms and human rights issues. In addition to her academic journey, she has actively engaged, since high school, in various associations that address pressing social issues. At the University of Exeter, she became part of the Junior Lawyers Against Poverty Association. These experiences shaped her perspective on the role of law in addressing societal challenges and fuelled her determination to contribute meaningfully to humanitarian causes on a global scale.

‘Through these endeavours, I have come to appreciate the transformative power of legal advocacy in fostering positive change and upholding the principles of justice. Participating in the Jean-Pictet Competition is a pivotal opportunity and a crucial stepping-stone for my envisioned future work in the humanitarian field. This esteemed competition has not only deepened my understanding of international humanitarian law but has also provided a platform to hone practical skills essential for effective engagement in complex humanitarian situations.’

Hélène Perot, enrolled in our LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, holds a bachelor’s degree in law and two master’s degrees in international law from Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University, as well as an LLM from the City University of Hong Kong. In parallel to her academic journey, she undertook legal intern positions in law firms in the field of criminal law, human rights and environmental law, as well as in an organization for Luxembourg’s development cooperation based in Laos where she focused on international criminal law standards, and their implementation at the domestic level. Throughout her path, she developed a passion for public international law and international issues while refining her ambition to engage in the field of human rights violations.

‘I look forward to taking up Pictet’s challenge to solve unexpected and complex situations while being confronted with the crucial interplay of IHL with other branches of public international law.’

Clara is currently pursuing our MAS in Transitional Justice, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law. Before joining our programme, she gained valuable experience as an intern in the precautionary measures section of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. In this role, Clara meticulously analysed diverse human rights situations across the Americas. Clara also brings a robust academic and professional background in research development, with a specific focus on ethnic rights and peacebuilding.

‘The opportunity to take part in the Jean-Pictet Competition is truly thrilling, not just for the competition’s sake but for the rigorous preparatory work it involves. Engaging in this process has already provided me with practical insights into the intricacies of humanitarian work that go beyond what books can convey. In a world confronted by various situations of violence and humanitarian crisis, acquiring these skills is, in my view, essential.’

Ayomide is currently pursuing our LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights. Before joining us, he worked on advocacy and public interest cases related to civil and socio-economic rights in Nigeria. As a dedicated human rights lawyer, Ayomide presented compelling arguments before both domestic courts in Nigeria and the West African court, addressing critical issues such as arbitrary detention, press freedom, and the environmental rights of marginalized oil-producing communities.

Ayomide was also part of the International Advocacy and Litigation Team at Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights. In this position, he focused on defending the rights of sexual minorities in Uganda, combatting enforced disappearance in Rwanda, and safeguarding civic spaces in West Africa.

‘The competition has afforded my teammates and me the opportunity of a lifetime – to take the law out of the books and apply it to real-life scenarios. The Pictet experience equips a few select students with the practice and pragmatism of IHL, and this has always proved more rewarding than the classroom routines of theories and texts. I am grateful for dedicated team members and an excellent coach; the world is our oyster.’

Jonas is enrolled in our LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights. Before joining our programme, he worked as a Human Rights Officer for Professor Ahmed Shaheed, supporting his mandate as United Nations Special (UN) Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief. In this capacity, Jonas contributed to projects on religious freedom in Uzbekistan and initiatives aimed at countering Islamophobia.

Previously, he obtained a master’s degree in human rights from Sciences Po and worked for the EU Delegation to the UN in Geneva. Jonas has a specific interest in the impact of counter-terrorism measures on human rights, the protection of minorities in conflict, and the use of data science for legal purposes.

‘It is one thing to learn the law in class or study it in the library, it is a wholly different thing to apply it on the spot in various simulation scenarios. The unique format of the Pictet Competition is what drew my interest in the first place. But the preparation phase already presents a fantastic opportunity to get to grips with the laws applicable in armed conflicts, also thanks to our amazing coach Mina.’