Beyond Borders: Perspectives on International and Comparative Law

The time has passed when comparative and international law could be seen as an area of high theoretical, but limited practical value. With continuing European integration, involving both European rulemaking and intensifying trade relations between Member States, it is self-evident that knowledge of one's national law no longer suffices for day-to-day legal practice. The exigencies of international trade necessitate knowledge and understanding of the laws of other countries, while domestic statutes increasingly have to be interpreted in the light of European Community law. The internationalisation of the economy and of modern life in general is inseparably linked to the internationalisation of law.

Hein Kötz, internationally acclaimed doyen within the comparative law family, strived throughout his academic career to raise awareness of this internationalisation of law and to cope with its problems. In May 2004 he stepped down from his position as the first Dean of Bucerius Law School. To commemorate this moment and to honour his passionate work in international and comparative law, many distinguished figures in this area gathe-red together. The talks delivered by a number of guests give profound insights into the current, hotly discussed issues in Hein Kötz's major areas of interest. They are collected in this volume, paying tribute to a leading scholar in comparative law.