Debate Series

AILA's debate series is motivated by the belief that policy makers must be able to articulate and defend their opinions.  This series is designed to enhance public speaking skills, teach argumentation styles, and create a substantive dialogue among young people. The AILA debate training program includes the following parts:

  • Argumentation Workshop
  • Debate Clinic
  • Speed Debate Tournament

Speed Debate

AILA created this format, which uses fast-paced, impromptu debate to hone the on-the-spot argumentation skills of the participants.  Debaters receive the topics just minutes in advance and must make their arguments concisely in the allotted time period.  This format allows dozens of people to participate simultaneously and gives them the opportunity to debate multiple topics in one night.

Past Participating Organizations Include Sample Resolution Topics
  • Normalizing Relations with Iran
  • Negotiating N. Korea's Weapons Program
  • Labeling 'Deep Throat' a Patriot
  • Closing Guatanamo Bay Prison
  • Judging the Legality of Domestic Spying
  • Intervening in the Darfur Crisis