University of Vienna in the Finals of the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court 2023

05.05.2023

The team of the University of Vienna prevailed in the European Rounds of the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court against teams from all over Europe and made it to the finals!

Nina Steininger and Bibi Khan represented the University of Vienna in the oral pleadings in Jaén, Spain. Roland Oberkofler was also involved in writing the successful written memorials. Oliver Rybecky, Johannes Pokieser, and Paulina Rundel acted as team coaches (alternating in time).

The team from the University of Vienna was only placed second by the University of Cologne. Nonetheless, Nina Steininger was still awarded the Best Oralist Award and, in addition to the prize money, will receive an internship at the European Space Agency in Paris.

On their way to the finals, the students from the University of Vienna put their skills to the test against some of the most renowned universities in Europe. These included King's College London, Leiden University, and Université Paris-Saclay, which even offer their own master's programs in Space Law.


The level of the competition was particularly high this year, and the judges' decision in the final was very close. In fact, the result was announced only after an hour-long debate.

The Institute for European, International and Comparative Law supported the team during the preparation. Numerous moot court experienced guest judges and their challenging questions, particularly from general international law, contributed that the team of the University of Vienna was well prepared for the pleadings.

International Moot Courts are a fantastic opportunity for students to realise their full potential, develop skills and prove themselves on an international level. This experience will definitely always be remembered by the Mooties and their coaches!

Contact: Paulina Rundel, Institute for European, International and Comparative Law: paulina.rundel@univie.ac.at