The course prepares for the participation in the Helga Pedersen Moot Court Competition (HPMCC). This moot court is jointly organised by the European Law Students' Association (ELSA) and the Council of Europe. The subject of the moot court is a human rights case under the European Convention on Human Rights. The teams submit pleadings for both sides, the applicant and the respondent to the case. From all teams registered for the competition 18 teams will qualify for the final oral round. The final oral round is annually held in Strasbourg with the pleadings taking place at the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) and the Council of Europe. Judges of the ECtHR may sit on the bench.

In 2016/17 the University of Lucerne participated for the first time in this human rights moot court competition and qualified for the finals in Strasbourg. This moot court competition is a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in Human Rights Law and to plead in front of the ECtHR. Participating in a moot court has an extremely high reputation among law firms. Students will be guided by coaches experienced in moot court competitions and are trained in Human Rights Law as well as in presenting legal arguments. In addition, the team will participate in a pre-moot court before the finals take place (if possible).

The attendance of the course might serve as a basis for the master thesis.