Learn how our researchers are tackling key issues such as migration, gender equality, and the evolving landscape of international trade, addressing global challenges, protecting vulnerable populations, and promoting justice worldwide. Explore how Common Law students are contributing to the Repertory of the Practice of the United Nations Organs, and learn from Professor John Packer’s insights on global conflicts. Discover Professor Delphine Nakache’s award-winning work on immigration and citizenship law, and see how Professor Jamie Liew examines the complexities of identity and nationality in her work on statelessness. Delve into Professor Penelope Simons’ innovative approaches to business and human rights, and join Professor Wolfgang Alschner as he convenes experts to discuss the future of the WTO dispute settlement system. These stories reflect how legal research is driving the protection of human rights and the development of fairer global systems.
Research Report 2023-2024
Human Rights and International Law

This page provides a glimpse of some major research initiatives in the area of Human Rights and International Law, including a video series about the World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement system and a look at the work of our award-winning human rights research experts.
Confronting global challenges
Scientific diplomacy

Scientific diplomacy
Beyond borders: A diplomatic approach to research on global migration challenges
While migration presents countless positive opportunities, it can also create significant challenges when it is not properly regulated.
Documenting UN practice

Documenting UN practice
Successful 13 years of research collaboration with the United Nations
Common Law students have recently completed the preparation of 10 additional studies for the Repertory of the Practice of the United Nations Organs.
Northern Justice Watch

Northern Justice Watch
John Packer discusses sustainable peace processes and other pressing topics
John Packer was featured on the “Justice and Human Rights Talk Series” to discuss a range of topics related to conflict around the globe.
Recognizing excellence
Award for research excellence

Award for research excellence
Professor Delphine Nakache Recognized for Impactful Research on Immigration
For her efforts to demystify immigration and citizenship law, Professor Delphine Nakache has received a University of Ottawa research award.
Fulbright Scholar Program

Fulbright Scholar Program
Jamie Liew wins Fulbright Award to study statelessness at University of Hawai'i
Professor Liew explores how persons were and are constructed as foreign, stateless, diasporic, Indigenous and as citizens.
Publication award

Publication award
An innovative approach to gender equality in business and human rights
Gender inequality and oppression are central issues in the field of business and human rights.
WTO Video Series, with Jurivision
International conference

International conference
Rethinking WTO Dispute Settlement: The Future of the WTO
In May 2023, Professor Wolfgang Alschner gathered experts to discuss the current state and future reform of the WTO dispute settlement system.
WTO Origins

WTO Origins
The Inception of the WTO and its trade dispute settlement system
The Inception of the World Trade Organization and its trade dispute settlement system
Dispute settlement

Dispute settlement
The WTO Dispute Resolution Process: Why is it Broken?
Since its inception, the WTO has been equipped with a two-instance dispute settlement system to resolve conflicts between member states.
Reforming WTO adjudication

Reforming WTO adjudication
WTO Dispute Resolution System: What can be done?
The deadlock over the appointment of judges to the Appellate Body (AB) has pushed the WTO dispute resolution system into crisis.
Investment arbitration

Investment arbitration
International Trade: Examining Old Outcomes, Charting New Horizons
The book Investment Arbitration and State-Driven Reform: New Treaties, Old Outcomes, written by Wolfgang Alschner, is timely and insightful.