VMI 2nd Place out of 28 in International Law of Armed Conflict Competition

Congratulations to VMI!

I was lucky enough to participate in this competition when I was at USCGA, it is an absolutely incredible experience and I recommend all International Studies/Government/Political Science majors take advantage of the opportunity if offered. The competition provides the very unique opportunity to sit in a room with countries from all over the world. When I participated, there were cadets/midshipmen from USCGA, USMA, USAFA, VMI, England, Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Brazil, Nigeria, Macedonia, and a few others.

Academically, you are presented with viewpoints/strategies from countries that range from those perceived as superpowers to those who believe in the strictest interpretation of international law. For the United States, we often will act as signatories to international laws/treaties but not ratify them - it makes for interesting conversation when you get into conversations about things like the International Criminal Court.

Socially, the IIHL is very adamant that the competition only take place during "work hours" and that the evenings should be dedicated to forging bonds and enjoying the "Spirit of San Remo." I still keep in touch intermittently with the friends I made at the competition. Funnily enough, the instructor who attended the competition with us said that each USA SA tends to bond with the same countries every year. For USCGA, we spent the most time with VMI, Norway, and Sweden.
 
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