American University’s School of Public Affairs and Washington College of Law cohosted the Academic Conference of the 2017 Luxembourg Forum on April 21. The Luxembourg Forum is a legal exchange between the U.S. Supreme Court and the Court of Justice of the European Union. The goal is to facilitate dialogue and enhance mutual understanding between the U.S. and EU judicial systems.

SPA Dean Barbara Romzek introduced the “Keynote Conversation” in the afternoon about judges as diplomats in advancing the rule of law. The featured speakers during this session included Stephen Breyer, Associate Justice, U.S. Supreme Court, and Koen Lenaerts, President, Court of Justice of the European Union.

“We are fortunate in the U.S. and in Europe, that the rule of law is embedded in our way of life,” said Dean Barbara Romzek. “It’s so important, and not just because of the long history of those who fought for it. It’s a powerful anchor for a modern nation in a fast-changing world.”

The program was moderated by SPA Professor Bill Davies and WCL Professor Fernanda G. Nicola.