As part of the ELI in the World series celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the European Law Institute. ELI President Prof Dr Teresa Rodríguez de las Heras Ballell spoke at the Law Society of Ireland ‘Ireland and the EU – An Opportunity for Influence: Threats to the Rule of Law and Adopting a Commonsense Approach to Tech Regulation’, held in Dublin on 22 September 2026.

Invited as a keynote speaker, President Rodríguez de las Heras Ballell addressed the evolution of technology regulation and the challenges facing legislators in an increasingly digital economy. Her keynote examined how regulatory approaches have developed over recent decades and highlighted the importance of striking an appropriate balance between the protection of rights, innovation, competitiveness, and the public interest.

Building on these themes, she took part in a panel discussion with leading legal practitioners and experts, contributing insights on the role of private law in enabling innovation and supporting business activity. She also discussed the growing importance of soft-law instruments in facilitating international trade and fostering legal cooperation in a fragmented global regulatory environment.

The event formed part of the ELI in the World anniversary initiative, through which ELI's Presidency and representatives engage with legal communities across different jurisdictions to mark the Institute's 15 years of fostering legal development, cooperation, and innovation. The Dublin event provided an excellent opportunity to highlight ELI's work and to strengthen dialogue with legal professionals and institutions in Ireland and beyond.