The European Law Institute (ELI) has launched its 15th anniversary programme with a roundtable held in Portugal on 18 March 2026 – the first in a series of events taking place across Europe and beyond throughout 2026. More here.
As part of the ELI in the World initiative, these anniversary events reflect the Institute’s commitment to fostering dialogue on the development of European law across jurisdictions, bringing together members, partners, and institutions in a range of international settings.
Portugal Roundtable: European Law in Uncertain Times
The Portugal roundtable brought together leading judges, academics, and practitioners to reflect on how European law is evolving in a context marked by sustainability challenges, rapid technological change, and global uncertainty.
The event was opened by Dr Marta Santos Silva, followed by a keynote address by ELI President Prof Dr Teresa Rodríguez de las Heras Ballell on European Law in Uncertain Times, addressing the role of law in navigating complexity and instability.
Panel I – The Evolving Mission of European Law
The first panel explored the changing role of European law in responding to societal and technological developments.
Speakers included:
• Sir Geoffrey Vos, Lord Justice of Appeal of the Court of Appeal of England and Wales & ELI Vice-President
• Prof. Dr Christiane Wendehorst, University of Vienna & ELI Scientific Director
• Judge Sylvaine Poillot Peruzetto, Supreme Court of France & Member of the ELI Executive Committee
The discussion emphasised the need for European law to remain both principled and adaptable.
Panel II – The Role of Universities and Research Centres
The second panel focused on the contribution of academic institutions to the development of European law.
Speakers included:
• Prof. Dr Pietro Sirena, Bocconi University & ELI Second Vice-President
• Prof. Dr Başak Başoğlu, Piri Reis University, Istanbul & Member of the ELI Executive Committee
The exchange highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between academia, legal practice, and institutions.
ELI is particularly grateful to the Portuguese Hub and to the University of Minho School of Law for their generous hosting of this important event, as well as for their continued engagement with ELI’s work.
Looking Ahead
The Portugal roundtable marks the beginning of ELI’s anniversary year, which will see further events organised across Europe and internationally in collaboration with institutional partners, continuing ELI’s mission to strengthen the quality of law through dialogue, research, and cooperation.
