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2017 NCCU-Kyoto Joint Seminar in International Law
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Seminar Report by Irish Tobiano (Kyoto)
Last October 31 to November 1, 2017, the very first NCCU-Kyoto University Joint Seminar in International Law was held in the NCCU Campus in Taipei, Taiwan. The Seminar consisted of 12 presentations - with 6 presenters each from NCCU and Kyoto - and covered a wide range of topics, from human rights, international environmental law, investment law, and refugee law. Each presentation was followed by a lively discussion where participants had the chance to ask questions and delve deeper into the complexities of the subject. 
Notably, many of the participants from NCCU are specializing on diplomacy and international relations. As such, the Seminar’s discussions took a more practical and political approach - a rather unusual, but welcome, change for Kyoto students who are more used to discussing issues from a strictly legal standpoint. As expected, there is also much interest on how the law differs between Japan and Taiwan, and how international law works differently in these jurisdictions.
After each full day of seminars, we are treated to warm Taiwanese hospitality and absolutely delicious local foods. These dinners are great opportunities for the participants to relax, get to know each other, and, for Kyoto students, get more intimately acquainted with Taiwanese culture. Special regard should be given to Professor Chen-ju Chen (NCCU) and Professor Shotaro Hamamoto (Kyoto), whose joint effort made this Seminar possible. The Professors also steered discussions during the Seminar and clarified obscure points. Likewise, we send our gratitude to the students of NCCU, who tirelessly prepared for this event and took care us during our stay.
This is the first joint seminar between the two universities. But with all the friendships forged and knowledge gained, we are certain it won’t be the last! This is just the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership. We look forward to welcoming our new friends from Taiwan in Kyoto next year!
