Frederik Swennen

Frederik Swennen is a Senior Full Professor of Family Law and Dean (2018–2024) at the Faculty of Law, University of Antwerp. He holds a PhD in Law from University of Antwerp (2000) and has been a full-time academic staff member since 2002. Swennen is affiliated with KU Leuven, Fondation pour le Droit Continental (Paris II), and serves as chair of the Child Abuse Trust Center in Antwerp. His international reputation includes leadership roles as president of the International Society of Family Law (2023–2026) and associate member of the International Academy of Comparative Law.

Education:

• LLB (1993, magna cum laude), University of Antwerp
• LLM (1996, magna cum laude, top 1%), University of Antwerp
• Exchange semester, University of Cape Town

Research Focus:

• Non-traditional family constellations (horizontal adult unions, vertical parent-child relationships)
• Empirical and social-theoretical approaches to family law and policy
• Intersectionality in family law
• Empowerment and protection of adults with disabilities

Awards and Grants:

• André Prims Prize for Health Law (2001)
• Exchange Chair from Journal of Private Law (2012–2013)
• NIAS Stipendium (2017–2018)
• Secured >2M€ in research funding

Teaching and Engagement:

• Teaches family law, international family law, and family proceedings at University of Antwerp and KU Leuven
• Lectures at five summer schools of Fondation pour le Droit Continental (Paris II)
• Spokesperson (2003–2017) for research group Personal Rights
• President of International Society of Family Law (2023–2026)