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Prof. Nula Frei: How international law takes effect at the local level

How are abstract legal norms put into practice in everyday life? And how can the rule of law and democracy remain strong and effective in times of social, political and technological change? Nula Frei, Professor of Public Law at the Faculty of Law at UniDistance Suisse, explores these questions in her research.

In the ‘Research in Focus’ interview series, Prof. Dr Nula Frei discusses her research approaches and how law operates from the international to the local level. She is particularly interested in how legal requirements are implemented at different levels of government and what conditions need to be in place for this to succeed. Her research brings together different areas of public law – from constitutional and administrative law to multi-level governance and questions relating to technology and fundamental rights. 

From international law to the local level

In her largest current research project, Prof. Dr Nula Frei examines the role of cities and municipalities in implementing international law. The project focuses on how norms developed at the international level make their way to the local level and are put into practice there. 

She also conducts research on topics including data protection, migration law and gender equality, and is currently focusing in particular on the recognition of non-binary identities in Swiss public law.

A strong rule of law in times of change

Her various research projects are united by an overarching concern: how can public law maintain and further develop its capacity to respond effectively in the face of technological, political and social change? And what is needed to strengthen the long-term resilience of the rule of law and democracy?

For Nula Frei, exchange across disciplinary and institutional boundaries is key. She collaborates with researchers at other universities, currently including the University of Bern, and engages in interdisciplinary dialogue with other fields. Through her research, she aims not only to contribute to academic debate, but also to a fair and well-functioning democratic society and a strong rule of law.

Alongside her research and teaching, Prof. Dr Nula Frei is Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Law and Programme Director. What she particularly values about her work at UniDistance Suisse is the opportunity to actively shape the university of the future, as well as the flexibility and scope for innovation offered by online study. One question that is particularly important to her is how human contact and interaction with students can be fostered in a digital learning environment. One of the highlights of the academic year for her is the annual graduation ceremony in autumn, when the students’ achievements are celebrated together. 

Here is the full interview with Prof. Nula Frei (available in German only)

Discover the interview series

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