Samantha Besson

Samantha Besson is a Professor at the Collège de France (since 2019) and the University of Fribourg (since 2005), holding the Chair in International Institutional Law. Her work focuses on the institutional dimensions of international law, including representation, regulation, and responsibility, with a regional emphasis on European and other global institutions.

• Education: Law studies in Switzerland, Austria, and the UK (1991–1999)

Research Interests span international law, human rights, European law, and democratic representation. She explores the legitimacy of international institutions and their reform, particularly in response to global challenges like climate change, health crises, and technological shifts.

Scientific Awards:

• Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur (2021)
• Honorary Doctorate from Université catholique de Louvain (2024)

Advisory and Institutional Roles: Serves on the Swiss government’s foreign policy advisory, permanent member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (2024–), co-chair of the International Law Association Working Group (2021–2024), and member of the Institute of International Law (2021–).