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.

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.

Confronting global challenges

Scientific diplomacy
Delphine Nakache
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
UN Students
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
John Packer
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
Delphine Nakache
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
Jamie Liew
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
Business and Human Rights Journal
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
Rethinking
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-1
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
WTO-2
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
WTO-3
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
Wolfgang Alschner
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.

Explore Human Rights and International Law at the Common Law Section