The In/Ex-clusiveness of International Law: Some Remarks on the 17th Annual Conference of the European Society of International Law by the Local Organizers

Abstract

The 17th ESIL Annual Conference, in Utrecht, was the first conference after the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic to be held in full capacity. It was a pleasure to see so many colleagues all together in one room. The conference attracted more than 400 participants from various parts of the world. As local organizers, we are very grateful to all of them for their interest and participation. The Covid-19 pandemic and related uncertainties had a major influence on the organization of this event. Only a few months earlier, it was still forbidden to organize large events in the Netherlands. Thus, we had to improvise and adapt to ever-changing circumstances. Some participants had to cancel their trips because of re-instated travel restrictions. Sponsors were doubtful about the turnout of the event and less keen to support us. We are sorry for any inconvenience that the various changes of plans and of circumstances caused for the participants.