The winners of the 2023 THEMIS Competition had the opportunity to visit the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) from 11 to 15 November. For the first two days of their study visit, the THEMIS teams joined another group of participants following an EJTN study visit at the CJEU. This gave the teams the opportunity to meet with other European justice practitioners, such as Judges, Prosecutors, Court and Prosecution Staff and judicial trainers. For the other days of the visit, the THEMIS teams benefitted from specialised sessions tailored by the CJEU.
This was the first time that the visit took place at a European institution instead of a national one, which offered the participants a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insights into how the CJEU works.
This year’s visit was also the first time that the teams placed second and third in the competition were invited to attend alongside the winners. This was an initiative of the Winners of the 2023 THEMIS Competition – the Italian team – in recognition of the bonds created between the three podium teams throughout the competition. It also captures the essence of the THEMIS Competition as a valuable platform to strengthen mutual trust and links between European magistrates from the very beginning of their careers. While the Dutch team (third place) was unfortunately unable to attend the visit, the six participants from Italy (first place) and France (second place) spent five days in Luxembourg.
During their visit, the participants delved into the judicial processes of both the CJEU and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). They also had the opportunity to attend a live hearing at the Court and to visit the European Parliament offices in Luxembourg, further emphasising the importance of collaboration between Europe’s judicial and legislative branches.
A member of the winning Italian team, Stefano Finocchiaro, said:
‘’I wanted to express my heartfelt thanks for the opportunity to visit the Court of Justice and explore Luxembourg. It was an enriching experience, and I truly appreciated the chance to meet and engage with such knowledgeable and inspiring individuals.
The visit not only deepened my understanding of the work at the Court but also allowed me to connect more closely with our French colleagues. Learning more about their perspectives and practices was particularly valuable, and I am confident it will enhance our collaboration moving forward.
Thank you once again for your generosity and support in organising such a memorable and insightful experience. I look forward to staying in touch and to future opportunities to work together.’’
A member of the French team, Gabrielle Vigneron, said:
‘’The French team is most grateful for its participation to this study visit organised by EJTN at the CJEU in Luxembourg. During this week, we had the unique opportunity to learn more about the specific procedures before the CJEU such as the preliminary ruling, assist to several hearings, and have quality interactions with many professionals working at the Court and within the EPPO.
Such a study visit, shared with our fellow Italian colleagues, also participates to reinforce the bonds that we have already created during the THEMIS competition. We had the chance to share our views on the hearings and procedures, and debate on judicial matters.’’
The THEMIS Competition and its accompanying study visit awarded to the best placed team or teams continue to be an extraordinary platform for judicial trainees eager to deepen their knowledge and connect with European institutions at the highest level. This year, the THEMIS Competition celebrates its 15th anniversary, and next month, the finalists of the 2024 Competition will meet in Naples, Italy for the exciting Grand Final.
To learn more about the annual THEMIS Competition, visit here.
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