2nd NLIU-CRIL Article Writing Competition 2026 | Register by 20 March!

2nd NLIU-CRIL Article Writing Competition 2026 is now open for registrations, inviting law students to submit scholarly articles on emerging and contemporary issues in international law.

The 2nd NLIU-CRIL Article Writing Competition is an initiative aimed at fostering academic excellence, research, and critical engagement with pressing global legal challenges. Organized by the Centre for Research in International Law, the competition provides a platform for students to explore innovative developments and policy debates in international law while contributing to structured academic discourse.

About National Law Institute University (NLIU), Bhopal

2nd NLIU-CRIL Article Writing Competition 2026 is hosted by National Law Institute University, one of India’s premier National Law Universities located in Bhopal. Established in 1997 by the State of Madhya Pradesh, NLIU was among the first three institutions set up under the National Law University system in India.

Over the years, NLIU has developed a strong reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and contribution to cutting-edge legal scholarship. The university actively promotes research in contemporary legal fields and regularly collaborates with national and international institutions to enhance scholarly engagement.

About the Centre for Research in International Law (CRIL)

The competition is organised by the Centre for Research in International Law (CRIL), a student-run body at NLIU dedicated to advancing awareness and scholarship in international law and policy. CRIL has consistently organised lectures, panel discussions, and conferences featuring eminent academicians and practitioners.

Through initiatives such as the 2nd NLIU-CRIL Article Writing Competition, the Centre seeks to create an inclusive intellectual environment where students can debate contemporary international issues and contribute to meaningful academic dialogue.

About the Competition

The 2nd NLIU-CRIL Article Writing Competition 2026 focuses on promoting structured research and in-depth analysis of contemporary themes in international law. Participants are encouraged to select a specific aspect within broader themes to ensure rigorous and focused scholarship.

Themes for the Competition

• Global Environmental Law
• Trade and Investment Law
• Human Rights Law
• International Humanitarian Law
• International Migration Law
• Law of the Sea
• International Law and Cyberspace
• International Criminal Law
• Air and Space Law

Authors may explore intersections between multiple themes but must maintain a clearly defined research focus.

Also Check: Ground Zero: A Beginner’s Guide to Legal Research

Event Timeline

Location and Mode

Mode: Online Submission
Location: National Law Institute University, Bhopal

The 2nd NLIU-CRIL Article Writing Competition 2026 will be conducted entirely through online submissions. Participants from across India and abroad can register and submit manuscripts digitally. The competition culminates in publication opportunities and recognition by NLIU’s academic platform, making it accessible while maintaining high scholarly standards.

Eligibility & Requirements

The 2nd NLIU-CRIL Article Writing Competition 2026 is open to students currently pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in law, including 3-Year LL.B., 5-Year LL.B., LL.M., and Ph.D. programmes. Participants may register individually or in teams of two. There are no restrictions regarding institutional affiliation for team members.

Submissions must present original research and demonstrate analytical depth, clarity in argumentation, and adherence to academic writing standards. Participants are advised to select a narrowly tailored research issue within the broader themes to ensure comprehensive and high-quality analysis.

Awards and Recognition

• Winner: INR 15,000
• 1st Runner-up: INR 7,500
• 2nd Runner-up: INR 5,000
• Publication Opportunity: Top three articles will be published in Volume V of the NLIU-CRIL Journal of International Law and Policy
• Certificates:
  • Certificate of Merit for Top 10 entries
  • Certificate of Participation for all valid entries

This structure ensures both financial incentives and strong academic recognition.

Registration Process

Participants must complete the following steps:

1. Make the payment through the official portal: Click here
   Select “2nd NLIU-CRIL-Article Writing Competition.”
2. Take a screenshot of the payment confirmation.
3. Fill out the registration Google Form:

Click here for the Brochure

Click here to Register