ELSA Austria celebrates the 10th year Law Review anniversary with a Human Rights Gala
ELSA Austria hosted a Law Review Gala Evening at the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Wien) on the 18th of February, marking the tenth anniversary of the ELSA Austria Law Review. The event brought together legal professionals, academics, students, and institutional representatives for an evening dedicated not only to commemoration but also to meaningful academic exchange and reflection on critical issues in law and society.
Since its launch ten years ago, the ELSA Austria Law Review has become an integral part of Austria’s legal academic landscape. Published in cooperation with Verlag Österreich, the journal offers a platform for young legal minds to publish scholarly articles on contemporary legal issues. Over the past decade, it has steadily built a reputation for academic rigour and relevance, providing early-career jurists with opportunities to contribute to the broader legal discourse.
The theme of the current edition, “Criminal Justice and Human Rights,” resonated strongly with the pressing questions facing today’s legal systems. At a time when the intersection between law enforcement, judicial practice, and fundamental rights is being critically examined around the world, this year’s Law Review seeks to provide insightful contributions that bridge theory and practice. The anniversary Gala served as a fitting moment to reflect on the journal’s journey, while also engaging with one of the most vital topics in contemporary legal debate.
The event was attended by approximately one hundred guests, among them legal scholars, practitioners, students, and representatives of civil society. WU Wien, as the host institution, was represented by Vice-Rector Professor Dr. Winner. The Austrian National Union of Students (ÖH) also lent its support to the event, underlining the importance of academic initiatives driven by students for students.
Opening the evening, Christina Schimetta, the President of ELSA Austria, and Arya Haager, the Vice President for Academic Activities, welcomed the guests with a retrospective look at the evolution of the Law Review. They highlighted how the journal has grown from a student-led initiative into a nationally recognised academic publication. Their speeches also introduced the newly published ninth edition and unveiled the theme for the forthcoming tenth edition, symbolising both continuity and forward momentum.
The academic heart of the evening featured a series of keynote presentations by leading experts in the field of criminal law and human rights. The speakers offered thought-provoking insights that reflected the complexity and urgency of the chosen theme. Esteemed speakers included Univ. Prof. Dr. Polzin, LL.M., and Univ.Prof. Dr. Kert from WU Wien, Prof. Dr. Hestermeyer, LL.M. from the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, Prof. Dr. Heller from the International Criminal Court (ICC), and Mag. Zehetner-Hashemi, Managing Director of Amnesty International Austria. Their thought-provoking lectures sparked meaningful discussions and offered valuable perspectives on the intersections of criminal justice and human rights in both national and international contexts. Each speaker brought a distinct lens to the discussion, encouraging dialogue that extended far beyond the lecture hall.
Following the academic program, guests were invited to a reception where a buffet offered a relaxed setting for networking and informal exchange. The convivial atmosphere allowed participants from various legal backgrounds to connect, share perspectives, and build relationships—an essential aspect of the ELSA spirit.
The ELSA Austria Law Review has, over the years, become more than just a publication. It stands as a symbol of student-led academic ambition, legal innovation, and interdisciplinary engagement. Its success lies not only in the articles it publishes but also in the intellectual community it fosters. Through its commitment to quality, relevance, and inclusion, the Law Review continues to empower young legal scholars to think critically and contribute meaningfully to the future of the legal profession.
by Arya Gerda Haager
