Inaugural Lecture of Professor Veronica Ruiz Abou-Nigm

Edinburgh Law School presents the Inaugural Lecture of Professor Veronica Ruiz Abou-Nigm

The Transformative Energy of Private International Law

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. A Uruguayan qualified lawyer, Professor Ruiz Abou-Nigm obtained an LL.M and Ph.D from the University of Edinburgh. She joined Edinburgh Law School in 2014, having previously been Lecturer in Law at Sheffield Law School (2008–2013). Prior to becoming an academic, she worked in private legal practice, specialising in shipping law, arbitration and mediation.

Professor Ruiz Abou-Nigm is a Member of the Court of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), President of the American Association of Private International Law (ASADIP), and a Member of the Scientific Council of the European Association of Private International Law (EAPIL). She is a UNIDROIT correspondent, an elected Associate Member of the International Academy of Comparative Law (IACL), and a member of the Lord Chancellor's Advisory Committee on Private International Law (UK Ministry of Justice).

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