(NEWS) WMU Hosts 2026 Öresund International Law Workshop

October

2026

WMU Hosts 2026 Öresund International Law Workshop

The World Maritime University (WMU)-Sasakawa Global Ocean Institute (GOI) hosted the 2026 Öresund International Law Workshop, “Law as a Tool for Global Commons Futures,” on 30 September at WMU. Organized in collaboration with the Faculty of Law at Lund University and the Faculty of Law at the University of Copenhagen, the workshop was held under the WMU-GOI Future Ocean Programme and within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding between Lund University Faculty of Law and WMU.

Bringing together international law scholars and researchers, the workshop explored how law can shape the future of global commons, with a particular focus on the oceans and outer space. Discussions addressed key challenges in ocean governance, including marine conservation under the BBNJ Agreement, deep-sea mining, maritime decarbonization, equitable access to marine genetic resources, and the relationship between international law, intellectual property and environmental protection. The programme also examined broader questions of access, power and justice in governing shared global spaces, including outer space.

The workshop highlighted the importance of international and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex governance challenges. Discussions on the implementation of the BBNJ Agreement and efforts to advance ocean equity underscored the role of international cooperation in shaping more inclusive and equitable approaches to ocean governance.

With more than 130 registered participants, the workshop fostered lively discussion and engagement, including strong participation from WMU students. The event also reinforced the longstanding cooperation between WMU and its academic partners and the role of the Öresund International Law Workshop series in strengthening connections among legal researchers across the region.

More information about the workshop programme, can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12izlWZqLcV_bLwRXSwa_Y4HfL4ibognh/view?usp=sharing

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My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

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