Inaugural Lecture of Professor Veronica Ruiz Abou-Nigm

About the Lecture
We live in a world of many worlds. Private international law unfolds where worlds meet — and it is precisely in that encounter that its energy transforms. In mediating between legal systems built on different assumptions about justice, equality, and social organisation, private international law does more than select among competing jurisdictions and rules. At its best, it translates, entangles and stewards — not merely resolving conflicts but also cultivating the cross-border cooperation on which a shared future depends. That energy does not stay contained within the field. It radiates outward, casting new light on questions and disciplines beyond its traditional remits — illuminating what has been left in shadow, and revealing connections. Yet much of this energy remains untapped. What if private international law — a field often perceived as overly technical and inward-looking — could offer transformative ways of thinking about law in our emerging global society, including for challenges such as sustainable development, where stewardship is most urgent?

In her inaugural lecture taking place on Wednesday 23 September 2026, 17:30, at the Playfair Library, Old College, University of Edinburgh, Professor Ruiz Abou-Nigm explores these three claims: that private international law’s transformative energy is born in the encounter between legalities; that its radiance extends well beyond questions of jurisdiction, applicable law, and cross-border recognition; and that significant potential remains to be unlocked.

About the Speaker

Professor Verónica Ruiz Abou-Nigm holds the Chair of Private International Law. Professor Veronica Ruiz Abou-Nigm's research bridges disciplines, focusing on the intersections between Private International Law and various other legal disciplines, such as Maritime Law, Public International Law, International Commercial Arbitration and International Civil and Commercial Litigation. The common thread of her research is internationalisation, from a perspective that embraces diversity: legal, cultural and methodological diversity, and enables the development of legal knowledge that fosters better cross-border cooperation and understandings. In particular, her research develops ideas in which Private International Law can contribute to accommodate the richness of different legal traditions and cultures in cross-border cases.