Institute Director's farewell address
Dear Members of the Institute and colleagues,
In a few days I will step down as Director of the Institute to take up my new position as Dean of the Law Faculty at the University of Sydney. I have been honoured by the opportunity to direct the Institute over the last two and a quarter years and have found the experience challenging and fruitful. To be in London at a time when international and comparative law are increasingly recognized as part of the rule of law in international relations has been particularly exciting. The Institute has been able to respond to the leadership of the courts of the United Kingdom by providing a forum for discussion of contemporary issues such as state immunity, the jurisdictional reach of the Human Rights Act and terrorism. Our analytical research work similarly focuses on today's concerns including Islamic law, competition policy, damages awards and evidence before international tribunals.
2008 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Institute. This is a time both to reflect on the Institute's distinguished record and achievements over 50 years, and to put in place plans to secure its role in the future. The next Grotius lecture, given by Dame Rosalyn Higgins on 16th October, will be our first opportunity to highlight our Anniversary Development Campaign. I do hope that you will be able to join us for what I know will be a memorable and enjoyable occasion. The support and interest of its membership is one of the Institute's great strengths and we are enormously grateful. I hope you will continue to be involved and to support our endeavours.
I am delighted by the appointment of a scholar of international law and current Dean of Nottingham Law School, Professor Robert McCorquodale, as the new director. He will take up his position in January next year. In the meantime, I am pleased that our Financial Director, Darryl Seaman, has kindly agreed to take on the responsibility as acting- Director. I wish them both every success over the coming months.
Best wishes to you all,
Gillian Triggs.
