Luke Laskey ’24 was one of almost 60 students from Germany, Poland, and the U.S. selected to participate in the Model International Criminal Court (MICC) in Krzyżowa, Poland in November. The program simulates trials before the International Criminal Court (ICC), renowned as the world’s most sophisticated mechanism for the protection of human rights and rules of warfare.
After providing a video introduction, completing a list of questions, and submitting an essay on how the experience could impact his life, Luke was one of eight other New Mexico students selected to represent the U.S.
His journey began with a long flight to Europe and exploring Amsterdam and Berlin for a few days before diving into the heart of the program at the MICC facility in Kryozoya. Along with the other students, he participated in a series of trainings, discussions, and workshops that culminated at the end of the week in a simulation of the ICC process – preparation, trial, and verdict.
One of the program’s highlights for Luke was his defense in a challenging case involving a Yugoslavian man claiming self-defense in the deaths of 80 people. The trials, mirroring those of the Nuremberg trials, Rwandan genocide, and Yugoslavian conflicts, provided rich material for both defense and prosecution teams, encouraging participants like Luke to pursue the complexities of human rights and humanitarian law.
Reflecting on his experience, Luke described MICC as the “best experience of my life.” Beyond the courtroom experiences, the evenings were filled with cultural exchange, music, and games. Despite occasionally missing home and an unusual Thanksgiving meal of sauerkraut, bread, and cheese, the shared experiences bonded the participants, forming friendships that extended beyond the courtroom. “I made so many friends – I’m hoping I can see them again. We have been staying in touch.”
As the program concluded with a visit to the city of Wroclaw, “an interesting place,” Luke says, “filled with gnomes and a Christmas market,” his journey underscored his continued interest in international law and human rights. Inspired by his time in Poland, Luke is contemplating majoring in international law and relations with a minor in human rights and Spanish, a testament to the program’s impact on his academic and personal growth. “It definitely opened my eyes to the world around me.”
