Strengthening ties and Expanding Horizons: Ocean Law Group's Visit to the University of Hamburg

This planned trip, spanning May 12-15, showcased a rich tapestry of discussions and exchanges aimed at bolstering the synergies between Gothenburg and Hamburg.

Day 1: Departure and Onboard Camaraderie
The journey commenced on May 12, with the group boarding the Stena Scandinavica. The evening set a warm tone with a dinner at Metropolitan, providing an opportunity for the participants to bond and discuss the days ahead. We discussed the identity of the Ocean Law Group as we aspire to strengthen ocean research and education.

Day 2: Intellectual Exchange and Collaborative Exploration
The following day, arriving in Kiel, we embarked on a train ride to Hamburg. This marked the beginning of a series of intellectually stimulating sessions at the University of Hamburg.

Academic Presentations
The afternoon began with a warm welcome at the Faculty of Law at the University of Hamburg. Professor Alexander Proelss opened the session by explaining the academic environment in Germany and introducing the work of the Institute of Maritime Law and International Law of the Sea. This institute brings together academics researching in both civil law and public international law, similar to the structure of the Ocean Law Group. Professor Claes Martinson then provided a detailed introduction to the work of the Ocean Law Group. Professor Lena Gipperth further enriched the session by explaining the transdisciplinary nature of the Sea and Society platform within the University of Gothenburg.

Deep Dive into Maritime Law
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to the German Association for the Law of the Sea, presented by Dr. Klaus Ramming, and a detailed analysis of German Marine Spatial Planning by Dr. Kai Trümpler. These presentations underscored the intricate legal frameworks governing maritime activities and highlighted the significance of international cooperation.

Synergy Pathways: Gothenburg and Hamburg
The latter part of the day was dedicated to exploring synergy pathways between Gothenburg and Hamburg. This session featured a series of thought-provoking presentations:

• Strict Liability for Shipowners under Tort Law by Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Wurmnest, Universität Hamburg
• Offshore Wind Power and Spatial Planning by Aron Westholm, University of Gothenburg
• International Adjudicative Bodies by Mary-Elisabeth Chong, Universität Hamburg
• The Law of the Sea in Geopolitical Contexts by Niels Krabbe, University of Gothenburg
• GEOSTOR and Legal Analysis on CCS by Lennart Westmark, Universität Hamburg
• Rethinking Ocean Governance by Vonintsoa Rafaly, University of Gothenburg

These presentations illuminated current research and sparked ideas for future collaborative projects, demonstrating the vast potential of interdisciplinary approaches in maritime law and law of the sea.

Day 3: A Visit to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea
On the third day, we headed to the Elbestrasse to visit the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), a pivotal judicial institution in ocean governance. We got acquainted with the day-to-day work of the Tribunal while it was preparing to deliver its second advisory opinion: from the setting of the premises to the parade of the judges going for their coffee break. We learned about landmark cases and took a guided tour of the exhibition and courtroom. This visit was highly informative and allowed our group to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day work of this judicial institution. As part of the capacity-building activities of the Tribunal, we aim to extend its outreach to our Master’s programme in the future.

After the visit, we had lunch before boarding a train back to Kiel and then took the Stena Germanica for our return journey. During the trip, we crossed the Danish Straits head back to Gothenburg.
 

Conclusion: A Promising Future
The Ocean Law Group’s visit to the University of Hamburg was more than an academic visit; it was a journey that hopefully will open the door to future collaboration. The diverse sessions and discussions highlighted the depth and breadth of maritime law and the law of the sea and the critical importance of international cooperation in addressing global ocean challenges.

This visit laid a strong foundation for future collaborations, promising an exciting horizon for the Ocean Law Group and the University of Gothenburg. The bonds forged and the knowledge exchanged will undoubtedly enrich both institutions, paving the way for innovative research and impactful contributions to the field of maritime law and law of the sea.

As a next step, Professor Proelss will visit the Law Department to hold the annual Kurt Grönfors Lecture. On this occasion, he will discuss the intricate relationship between climate law and the law of the sea. He will analyze the legal repercussions of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea’s advisory opinion on the obligations concerning the protection of the marine environment and the negative effects of climate change.