Mock Trial Cycle Advances EU–MENA Judicial Cooperation in Counter-Terrorism

Eight mock trials, six countries, one shared goal

The mock trial training cycle delivered under the CT INFLOW project has been completed after three years of implementation across six MENA partner countries. The cycle comprised eight mock trial activities, designed as immersive simulations of court proceedings in realistic counter-terrorism case scenarios.

Participants applied their existing expertise while engaging with new knowledge delivered through expert presentations. The 'learning by doing' approach gave practitioners hands-on experience in:

• Evidence collection, assessment, and admissibility standards
• Legal argumentation in terrorism and organised crime contexts
• Witness testimony and protection measures
• International cooperation mechanisms, including mutual legal assistance

The cycle was designed explicitly as a peer-to-peer learning exchange — not a one-way transfer of norms, but a structured dialogue between practitioners from different legal traditions working toward shared objectives.

“Despite the differences between national legal systems across the EU and MENA, shared knowledge, practical experience and professional perspectives proved that we think alike when it comes to justice and security issues. The dedication and openness of all participants clearly showed that we share a common goal of enhancing capacity for successfully fighting terrorism and contributing to a safer world.”
 Ksenija Krizman, CT INFLOW Project Manager

Results: guidelines, networks, and lasting cooperation

A key output of the mock trial cycle is the Guidelines in the counter-terrorism dimension for the judiciary. This document consolidates lessons learned and practitioner feedback from across the eight activities into actionable recommendations for judicial actors. The guidelines address:

• Operational challenges identified during the exercises
• Legislative discrepancies between participating jurisdictions
• Training needs and capacity gaps flagged by practitioners

Beyond the guidelines, the cycle has generated a network of judicial and law enforcement professionals — drawn from both EU and MENA institutions — who have built mutual understanding and professional trust through shared practice. This network represents a durable asset for future cooperation.

The completion of the cycle marks a milestone in the project’s counter-terrorism cooperation: a model for how structured, peer-to-peer judicial training can translate into concrete Improvements in cross-border legal collaboration.

About CT INFLOW II

CT INFLOW II: The counter-terrorism information exchange is implemented under the EU Global Threats programme, funded by the European Union.

The project aims to contribute to preventing and disrupting terrorist networks, cutting off terrorist funding, and bringing terrorists to justice, while upholding human rights and international law throughout.

Download the project factsheet