The First AIPPI Central America & Caribbean IP Moot: A Milestone for Regional Advocacy

The First Intellectual Property Moot Court organized by the AIPPI Regional Group of Central America and the Caribbean marked a significant step forward in fostering legal excellence, collaboration, and advocacy skills among young practitioners in the region. Designed as a platform to simulate high-level IP dispute resolution, the Moot brought together teams of lawyers from multiple countries of the Region, highlighting both the diversity and shared commitment to intellectual property law across these jurisdictions.

The competition unfolded in two stages: a virtual first and an in-person final. The semifinal round, conducted online, demonstrated not only the adaptability of the participants but also their strong command of legal argumentation in a remote setting. Teams engaged in rigorous debate, presenting well-structured arguments on complex intellectual property issues before a panel of distinguished arbitrators. The level of preparation and enthusiasm was evident throughout, setting a high bar for the final stage.

The final round took place on March 25 in Guatemala City, providing a dynamic and engaging in-person environment at CRECIG (Guatemala Conflict Resolution Commission). The two finalist teams—representing Honduras and Guatemala—delivered outstanding performances in what proved to be a closely contested and intellectually stimulating hearing. Both teams exhibited impressive analytical skills, deep knowledge of IP law, and the ability to respond effectively under pressure.

What made this Moot particularly remarkable was the enthusiastic participation of teams and arbitrators who accompanied us in all the stages from across the region. Representatives from various countries within the AIPPI Central America and Caribbean Regional Group contributed to an atmosphere of camaraderie and healthy competition. Their commitment not only enriched the quality of the discussions but also reinforced the importance of regional cooperation in advancing intellectual property law.

After careful deliberation, the panel awarded first place to the Guatemalan team, IP Guardians. Their performance stood out for its clarity, persuasive advocacy, and strong command of both oral argumentation and arbitration techniques. The team demonstrated a refined ability to structure arguments, engage with the tribunal, and address complex legal questions with confidence and precision.

The success of this first edition of the Moot Court sets a promising precedent for future initiatives. Beyond identifying top talent, the competition served as a valuable training ground for emerging IP professionals, and equipped them with practical skills that extend beyond the classroom or office. The competition  also strengthened professional networks within the region, and fostered a sense of shared purpose among participants.

In conclusion, the First AIPPI Central America & Caribbean IP Moot was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of legal talent, regional integration, and the evolving practice of intellectual property law. With such a strong inaugural edition, it is poised to become a cornerstone event for the next generation of IP practitioners in the region.