The first International Mobility Program—Assessing Constitutional Crisis Impact and Security (IMP–ACCTS) Kick-Off Conference, held over two days at the University of Salento in Lecce, Italy, in December 2024, brought together leading academics, legal experts, and institutional partners to explore pressing issues in constitutional law and human rights. The program featured discussions on topics such as the implications of judicial reform in the context of occupation, the alignment of electronic surveillance with international human rights standards, and the constitutional instability posed by regional security threats, particularly in the case of Kosovo Serb municipalities. Another key focus was on minority rights and citizenship during emergencies, with a case study on Israel.
Part of the academic panel at the IMP–ACCTS Kick-Off Conference. L-R: Prof. David Kretzmer, Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Prof. Stefania Ninatti, University of Milan-Bicocca; Prof. Gjyljeta Mushkolaj, University of Prishtina, former Judge of Kosovo Constitutional Court; and Dr. Manal Totry-Jubran, Bar-Ilan University
The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including full professors of constitutional law, public international law, and minority rights from renowned universities such as the University of Milan-Bicocca, the University of Reading, and Bar-Ilan University. The speakers also included a former judge of the Kosovo Constitutional Court and scholars specializing in international human rights and regional security issues. Institutions represented spanned across Europe and the Mediterranean, including universities in Italy, Israel, Kosovo, and other Balkan countries. This diverse group brought a wealth of expertise and unique perspectives on the challenges at the intersection of constitutional law, human rights, and geopolitical stability.
Daniel Schuval, Senior Advisor for Internationalization at Bar-Ilan University’s International School, speaks at the IMP–ACCTS Kick-Off Conference
Reflecting on the importance of such collaboration, Daniel Schuval, Senior Advisor for Internationalization at Bar-Ilan University’s International School, emphasized, “The IMP–ACCTS program exemplifies how academic collaboration across borders can tackle some of the most complex and urgent issues of our time. By bringing together diverse voices, we not only deepen our understanding of constitutional crises but also forge pathways to shared solutions.”
He also highlighted the significance of the conference’s location, adding, “Hosting this event in Lecce—a city with deep historical ties to cross-cultural dialogue—reinforces the importance of bridging divides and fostering mutual understanding in today’s polarized world.”
In addition to the academic panels, the conference included guided city tours, partner introductions, and roundtable debates to encourage collaboration among participating universities from Europe and the Mediterranean. These activities highlighted the collective commitment to advancing legal research and education while addressing regional and global challenges. The event concluded with reflections from distinguished experts, offering insights into constitutional stability and the evolving dynamics of international law and security.
