Join us in extending congratulations to the winners of the 2022 Annual Student Essay Competition. 

Elena, an aspiring barrister completing vocational studies at the Inns of Court College of Advocacy, is our first-place winner, and you’ll be able to read her essay in our upcoming edition of the UK Journal of Animal Law. Elena studied English Literature at Oxford where she read the writings of animal rights proponents such as Percy Shelley. This was the catalyst to ignite her passion for improvement in the treatment of animals using the law. 

Sebastian, a current Bar Course student at BPP, is our second-place winner. Sebastian has worked with JUSTICE, Advocate and Liberty, and aspires to make a positive impact on the lives of animals through his legal career.

Beth, a recent graduate of the University of Winchester, BA [Hons] in Animal Welfare and Society, and current MsC Animal, Behaviour, Ethics and Law student, is our third-place winner. Beth aspires to use her education to make legislative changes and raise social awareness about animal issues and treatment in our society.

Congrats to all three of you, and a big thank you to all the students who participated in the 2022 competition. It’s always inspiring to us to see students delve into the questions with care and consideration, and provide thought provoking essays.

What is the Annual Student Essay Competition?

Every year A-LAW runs an essay competition for students on a topical issue or theme within the field of animal law. This year our essay question was: “William Windham MP, debating the Cruelty to Animals Bill [HC Deb, 13th June 1809, vol 13, ‘…his first and general objection to the Bill was, that the object of it, however commendable, was not such as to become a fit subject of legislation.’ Discuss the relevance of this statement to modern society. 

Our competition provides students with the opportunity to hone their research and writing skills, whilst gaining experience in a niche area of law. It also offers an opportunity to get published in a peer reviewed journal, the UK Journal of Animal Law, the first of its kind within the UK. 

Our competition is judged by esteemed lawyers and academics from around the UK. 

This competition is open to all students, inclusive of undergrad and postgrad studies. Learn more about our competition here, or message [email protected] for further information. 

What did our participants say about the competition?

“I participated in the UK Centre for Animal Law’s Essay competition because I was interested in animal welfare on a personal level, but hadn’t had the chance to study animal law as part of a university course. The competition was a great way to fill in the gaps in my legal, political and ethical understanding of the subject, while exercising my reasoning and drafting skills. With growing scientific understanding of animal sentience; the looming threat of climate change; technological advances reducing reliance on animals; and the pressing moral imperatives to stop the suffering of animals –  it’s never been more important to think and write about animal law. I would really encourage you to participate.” Elena – 2022

“I really enjoyed reading and researching about the topic for this years competition, as it gave me the chance to learn about the history of animal law and that we are facing a critical juncture in the progress towards animals being able to live lives free of cruelty. I feel that this competition is an important contribution to the discourse, and all students eligible should take the opportunity to be part of this. The fact is that only when  more attention is given to animal law can progress be made. If you care about the plight of animals this is a chance to show it. Not to mention you get the chance to learn more about this area, win something for your CV’s, and a gift voucher!” Sebastian – 2022

“I participated in the competition as I had a module in Animal Law as part of my undergraduate degree in Animal Welfare and Society at the University of Winchester and really enjoyed learning about that part of animal welfare. I learnt a lot about the history of animal law and the country’s historical views on animal welfare and how far society has positively changed over the past 200 years. I think it is important to write about animal law to educate people and raise awareness to even further improve legislation. I would encourage any future students to participate as it is a fantastic learning opportunity and helps improve your essay writing within your degree.” Beth – 2022