DAV Teams Win First and Second Runners-Up at the National Round of the 2024 FDI Moot

Two teams from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV) delivered an impressive performance at the National Round of the 2024 International Investment Arbitration Moot Court Competition, held on 28-29 September 2024. Competing against strong teams from across the country, DAV’s representatives showed exceptional advocacy skills, strong command of international investment law, and remarkable composure throughout the proceedings.

The 2024 edition of the competition focused on a complex foreign direct investment (FDI) dispute, featuring issues at the forefront of contemporary investment arbitration practice. Teams were required to argue questions relating to adverse inference, provisional measures under the 2022 ICSID Arbitration Rules, indirect expropriation, and the retroactive application of investment protections. Participants first submitted written memorials before advancing to multiple rounds of oral pleadings, simulating real ICSID tribunal procedures and challenging students to engage deeply with both substantive and procedural law.

DAV was represented by two teams of outstanding students. Team DAV A included Nguyễn Quỳnh Diệp, Nguyễn Phương Linh, Tạ Quang Minh, Trịnh Bình Minh, and Lê Xuân Tùng. Team DAV B consisted of Trần Ngọc Mai, Trần Vân Anh, Nguyễn Phương Trinh, Nguyễn Thị Thu Quyên, and Trịnh Thảo Phương. Throughout the rounds, both teams impressed the judging panels with rigorous legal analysis, strategic argumentation, and confident advocacy.

At the conclusion of the competition, Team DAV A secured the position of First Runner-Up, while Team DAV B earned Second Runner-Up. These achievements further consolidate DAV’s strong record in this prestigious competition.

The moot is an annual event organized by the Vietnam Society of International Law (VSIL), attracting participation from leading universities nationwide. Over the years, DAV students have consistently performed strongly, earning numerous high-ranking awards and reinforcing the Academy’s reputation within the Vietnamese international law community.

Participation in this competition plays a crucial role in developing students’ practical legal skills. It enhances their expertise in international investment law, strengthens research and writing capabilities, and builds confidence in oral advocacy. For many students, presenting arguments before experienced practitioners and academics offers an invaluable bridge between theoretical study and professional legal practice.

The strong performance of DAV’s teams in 2024 represents another important milestone in the Academy’s mooting journey, highlighting the dedication, capability, and growing professional ambition of its emerging international law practitioners.