Van Vollenhoven Institute

Research

The VVI seeks to advance knowledge of the formation and functioning of legal systems in their social contexts, the impact of these systems on society and vice versa, their effectiveness in governance, and their contribution to development.

The Institute adopts a socio-legal and global approach, doing research on law in the books and law in action in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America.

The research projects of the VVI are embedded in the larger research programmes at the Leiden Law Faculty, entitled 'Effective Protection of Fundamental Rights in a pluralist world' and 'Criminal Justice: Legitimacy, Accountability and Effectivity'. Part of the Institute’s projects also fall under Asian Modernities and Traditions research profile. Combining research activities with colleagues across the university both enriches and strengthens our research capabilities.