Aims

The aim of the seminar is to encourage students to start thinking in depth about certain topics related to the seminar. The themes of the seminar varies from year to year. It may be divided into 15 topics linked by a joint area of difficulty.

Main themes

The methodology used requires students to carry out two assignments: an oral presentation during the course of the year on the outcome of their research on the topic assigned to them , and a written report in which students are required to systematise and summarise the issues raised by their topic and to take advantage of the discussions and debates that followed their exposé as well as those of the other students. The lessons start at the beginning of the academic year. However, the first oral presentations only take place during the second term. During the first term, the students present the various topics analysed. Each student reports regularly on the status of his/her research as well as on the issues and difficulties that he/she is faced with. This work is thus carried out in a team in order to ensure coordination . During the first term, one or other lesson may be dedicated to an exposé on a specific item related to the themes of the seminar. The lecturer is either a member of the Law School or an external person. Each student is assessed on the basis of his/her work over the year, his/her effective participation in the work and debates and the quality of his/her oral presentation and written report.

Content and teaching methods

Topic: criminal procedure and fighting serious organised crime.

Europe experiences a large number of offences that may be linked with the international phenomenon of serious organised crime. The latter takes various forms. The development of this phenomenon threatens the democratic living conditions of citizens in a democratic state.

In order to fight organised crime, Belgium, like other Member States of the European Union, has adopted several new laws in the field of criminal procedure (phone tapping, special research techniques, witness protection schemes, anonymous witnesses, audiovisual techniques, seizures, etc.) and has established specific institutions in order to promote judicial and police cooperation (federal prosecutor, federal police, etc.).

The seminar focuses first on the description of the phenomenon of serious organised crime and later on the study of recent laws related to criminal procedure as well as some specific institutions. The course involves the study of Belgian and comparative law from a descriptive and critical point of view .

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Not applicable.

Other credits in programs