Debate It! Inspires the Next Generation of Thinkers Across Europe

In classrooms and conference rooms across Europe, Hogan Lovells colleagues are fostering the leaders of tomorrow through our global Debate It! program. From primary school students to high school seniors, Debate It! equips young minds in underserved schools with essential skills in public speaking, confidence, and negotiation. With support from our lawyers, business team members, and several non-profit partners, students participate in a transformative six-week program that culminates in a final moot court-style debate.

Launched in the London office and now with versions in multiple offices—including Munich, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Milan—Debate It! focuses on teaching foundational debate and negotiation techniques. Sessions, held either at Hogan Lovells offices or partner organizations, span topics such as rhetoric, persuasion, public speaking, body language, and negotiation. Each session includes simulated debates addressing contemporary issues such as cancel culture, the rights of corporations vs. environmental protections, and euthanasia.

The impact is clear: students develop technical, methodological, and soft skills, improving their ability to express ideas, evaluate arguments critically, and collaborate effectively. For example, in the UK, when asked whether they agreed or disagreed with the statement “I am good at public speaking” the percentage of students that agreed or strongly agreed increased by nearly 20%.

The program’s final moot court event is a highlight, bringing together students, local judges, and corporate clients serving as jury members. In Milan, the 2025 final debate will take place at the Centro di Arbitrato e Mediazione (CAM), further engaging the local community and showcasing students’ progress.

Since its inception, Debate It! has supported thousands of students across Europe and continues to expand. With a 2025 goal of launching in additional offices, Hogan Lovells remains committed to empowering youth through innovative, impactful education programs. By building confidence and critical thinking skills, Debate It! is not only shaping stronger students but also more resilient, thoughtful communities.