In July 2019, Strathclyde Law School was delighted to welcome 35 senior members of the judiciary of Thailand to Glasgow for two weeks. This marks the second occasion in which the University has been chosen as host to welcome a group of Thai judges.
Strathclyde Law School put together a programme of seminars on the theme of Election Law. Thailand has recently held national elections, and the visiting judges are specialists in this area but keen to improve their knowledge of other legal systems and how international standards are applied.
The programme was taught by academic members of staff at Strathclyde from the Law School (including Professor Paul James Cardwell, Dr Rhonda Wheate, and Professor Mike Nellis) and the School of Government and Public Policy (Professor Sir John Curtice). Visitors from other Universities across the UK and Ireland shared their specialist research on Election Law. The participants also had the chance to discover other aspects of criminal law and justice in Scotland, including the use of electronic monitoring (with a demonstration provided by G4S) and Strathclyde's award-winning, student-led Law Clinic.
In addition to the seminars, the judges enjoyed a dinner at Ross Priory, hosted by Professor Ian Rivers, Senior Vice Dean in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and a Civic Reception at the City Chambers on George Square. The judges also visited Glasgow Sheriff Court and had the opportunity to talk with their Scottish counterparts. Trips were organised to the Scottish Parliament and to areas of interest in Glasgow. Sandra Heidinger, Chief People Officer, presented the participants with certificates on behalf of the University at the conclusion of their stay.
The group's visit enabled the University and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences to strengthen their already excellent relationship with Thailand and gave an excellent opportunity to promote Strathclyde and share our research expertise.