Competition Description:
The International [Future] Barrister Mentorship has announced the Richard Drabble KC Essay Prize 2026, inviting students and aspiring barristers to submit essays on contemporary issues in Human Rights Law. This year’s competition focuses on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the protection of rights under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Winners will receive cash prizes, publication opportunities, and exclusive professional development experiences.
Details:
• Organisation: International [Future] Barrister Mentorship
• Competition: Richard Drabble KC Essay Prize 2026
• Theme: Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights under the European Convention on Human Rights
• Mode: Online Submission
Essay Topic:
• To what extent does the development and use of Artificial Intelligence challenge the effective protection of rights enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights, and is the existing legal framework adequate to address those challenges?
• The discussion should focus on one Article of the Convention or its Protocols.
Eligibility:
• Students interested in Human Rights Law
• Aspiring barristers pursuing a career in Public Law and Human Rights Law
Submission Requirements:
• Essay Length: 2,000–2,500 words (including footnotes)
• Format: Microsoft Word or PDF
Prizes:
• First Prize: £1,000 cash prize
• Copy of The Law and Practice of Human Rights (First Edition)
• Invitation to the Landmark Chambers Human Rights Law Conference (26 November 2026)
• Opportunity to undertake a mini-pupillage with Landmark Chambers’ Public Law Team
• Opportunity to work with the editors of Judicial Review towards publication of the winning essay
Runner-Up Benefits:
• Up to two runners-up will receive £250 each
• Invitation to the Landmark Chambers Human Rights Law Conference
Important Dates:
• Submission Deadline: 18 October 2026 (Midnight)
Application Process:
• Submit your essay in Word or PDF format via email to: [email protected]
Link to LinkedIn post: Link
