The Olympics
of debating.
70+ nations. One stage. The most prestigious student debate competition on the planet — and Luxembourg is competing for the first time.
70+
Nations competing
38+
Years running
1988
First championship
70+ nations. One stage. The most prestigious student debate competition on the planet — and Luxembourg is competing for the first time.
Teams of three students from over 70 countries compete in multiple rounds — debating social, legal, moral, and political motions in English. Judged by an international panel of experts. Every country sends one team, selected through national tryouts. There is no other route in.
WSDCEach nation sends a single national team — selected by their federation through competitive tryout. Simply being selected places you among the strongest young thinkers on the planet.
Regardless of where a team is from, all debate is conducted in English — under time pressure, in front of international judges.
Some motions are announced days in advance. Others arrive 30 minutes before the round starts. Both test entirely different skills.
Teams are assigned proposition or opposition by the draw. You must argue convincingly for any position on any motion — this is what separates WSDC debaters from everyone else.
Simply qualifying to attend the World Schools Debating Championships places you among the strongest young thinkers on the planet.
WSDC motions cover territory that most students won't encounter until university — and beyond.
WSDC alumni go on to the world's top universities and careers at disproportionate rates — the skills built here follow them everywhere.
LNDF is selecting Luxembourg's national team for WSDC Kenya 2026. Applications are open to all secondary-school students — no prior experience required.