Back from Bogotá

I just returned from the Law and Development conference sponsored by Harvard University law school and hosted by the Univerisdad de los Andes in Bogotá, Colombia. David Kennedy chaired the conference and an amazing contingent of speakers provided presentations on topics ranging from trade law to family law, from legal theory to land reform. Presenters came from around the world, most with some Harvard law connection, and convered issues in Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the U.S.

Most significantly, the speakers all appeared to express some inclination that we are at a crucial moment in the law and development field. This once ripe academic area has been sidestepped in favor of globalization and free market reform models for the past two decades, but as developing countries continue to experience low growth, expanding poverty, and growing gaps between rich and poor, both academics and practitioners are breathing new life into the movement. David Kennedy wrapped up the conference with a wonderful summary of the presentations, making it clear that we are on the cusp of a rejuvenated movement that may have a substantial impact on development in the next few years. I will post his comments here when (if) he publishes them.

Kevin Fandl