Activity Details (ID# 12395)

Activity Synopsis

The aim of the training was to build and increase knowledge of the various regional human rights systems, focusing on the protection and promotion of the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information. There are several features of MLAP which, combined, make it unique:
• the training focus is on increasing existing knowledge of the standards and jurisprudence of the regional human rights bodies, as well as updating that knowledge in the light of newer sources;
• participants spend time building advocacy campaigns concerning cases/issues which will be carried out post-Oxford;
• each participant is involved in a different “firm”, representing applicant clients and the respondent state in a moot (memorials are prepared and exchanged and an oral hearing takes place before three “judges”);
• the training is delivered using progressive pedagogy, based on Lozanov’s Suggestopedia, which fosters accelerated learning and uses a variety of techniques appealing to different learning styles;
• The timing of this year’s MLAP made it possible to combine the focused training with sessions/meetings with other Oxford activities - the International Human Rights Law Programme; the PCMLP annual mid-year symposium; and the Annenberg/Oxford Summer Institute in Global Communications Regulation/Policy;
• MLAPs are a means to a greater end: building a global community of media defence lawyers and advocates, now formed into the International Media Lawyers Association (IMLA).
 

The activity was aimed at strengthening the global network IMLA, foreseen as the actual outcome of the annual/ad-hoc MLAPs. This year’s programme was very successful in this regard.

PCMPL plans the continuation of the training programme both in Oxford in 2006 and in the field, using combinations of different time-periods and foci.
 

The training programme creates a global community of media defence lawyers and advocates, which forms the International Media Lawyers Association (IMLA): www.internationalmedialawyers.org. 

Media law experts from Stability Pact countries