Erasmus School of Law

In a changing world, Erasmus School of Law explores how law and societal developments impact and shape one another. We are at the heart of society, where economic interests and complex societal challenges converge, giving rise to new dynamics. With our entrepreneurial spirit, we advance knowledge by connecting academic insights with practice and passing it on to the lawyers and criminologists of the future. Where else but in the global city of Rotterdam? Where Law Meets Business.

Ships are being operated remotely, and larger autonomous cargo and passenger vessels are currently being tested. But is that possible without a captain.

Thursday 15 Oct 2026
General

The drug economy: what lies behind a line of coke?

Behind a line of coke lies a world of crime and drug trafficking. Criminologist Robby Roks explains how that economy affects Rotterdam.

Monday 12 Oct 2026
Podcast

Nobel Peace Prize for honorary doctorate holder Navi Pillay reaffirms the importance of the international legal order

The South African human rights lawyer Navi Pillay, who has held an honorary doctorate from our university, is to receive this year’s Nobel Peace Prize.

Monday 12 Oct 2026
General

Meta removes queer accounts without explanation: “These kinds of systems operate in breach of European rules”

"Many of these systems operate on the basis of algorithms, without any human involvement,” says assistant professor Masuma Shahid.

Wednesday 7 Oct 2026
In the media

Does every security problem really need an AI fix?

In late 2025, police dropped the Criminality Anticipation System – Professor Marc Schuilenburg on what we can learn from that decision.

Tuesday 6 Oct 2026
In the media

Meinke van Oenen is the Dutch Youth Water Envoy for the UN Water Conference

That makes her the Dutch youth voice on the highest stage of international water diplomacy: the UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi, from 8 to 10 December.

Tuesday 6 Oct 2026
General

Why tax rules hinder the repair of consumer electronics

Erasmus School of Law research: VAT and customs rules discourage electronics repair. A lower VAT rate won't fix it; a package of measures is needed.

Tuesday 29 Sep 2026
Publication

"Investing in legal aid is well worth the cost”

Faure and Visscher (ESL) argue subsidised legal aid pays off: justice is a public good the market won't provide, so case merit should count, not just income.

Thursday 24 Sep 2026
Publication

When courts become the last line of defence for democracy

Courts are increasingly acting as defenders of democracy. In a new symposium, ESL's Michał Stambulski explores the promise and risks of this shift.

Thursday 24 Sep 2026
General

Tourism in the aftermath of a natural disaster: rebuilding sites, restoring trust

Strong governance boosts international tourism after disasters by signaling safety, while weaker governance drives more domestic travel via displacement.

Thursday 17 Sep 2026
Publication

LEGIS: Legal Ecosystem for Governance, Intermediaries and Standards in SSH Research Data - Project Kickoff

Join the LEGIS project kickoff: bringing legal clarity to research data sharing and AI use in SSH research. Explore the challenges with international experts.

Wednesday 28 Oct 2026, 14:00 - 17:00
Symposium