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Indo Dutch Research Center on Climate Change Law, Research and Education

ABOUT THE CENTRE

The Indo-Dutch Research Center on Climate Change Law, Research and Education is a collaborative initiative between the Van Vollenhoven Institute at Leiden University in the Netherlands and the Government Law College in Ernakulam, India. It aims to promote research and education in climate change law by facilitating knowledge exchange between the two countries. The center focuses on legal frameworks addressing climate change challenges and seeks to contribute to policy development and academic discourse.

OUR OBJECTIVES

  • To promote research on climate change law and policy in India and the Netherlands.
  • To engage students in policy research, field studies, and publications.
  • To foster dialogue between academia, government, and civil society.
  • To foster dialogue between academia, government, and civil society.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR MEMBERS

  • Participate in research projects and policy discussions.
  • Contribute to Centre publications and reports.
  • Collaborate with experts from India and the Netherlands.
  • Develop leadership and research skills in climate law and policy.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2024-25

1) The Certificate Course on Interdisciplinary Approach to Climate Change Laws (Feb 04-25, 2025)

The course was designed to prepare legal professionals to meaningfully engage with the growing legal and governance challenges posed by climate change. The program integrated insights from sociology, environmental science, economics, and anthropology to build a holistic understanding of climate governance. It prepared participants to navigate ESG compliance, climate litigation, policy advocacy, and international climate law. Through cross-sector collaboration and practical learning, the course strengthened interdisciplinary legal competence across corporate, trade, investment, and public law. Overall, it developed future-ready
professionals capable of driving sustainable legal solutions and advancing impactful careers at
national and international levels.

2) The International Workshop on Interdisciplinary Approach to Climate Change Education (Feb 27– 28, 2025)

The workshop united global academics, legal experts, and students to promote holistic climate governance. Through panels and research presentations, it examined integrated climate laws, rights-based approaches, carbon markets, and global cooperation. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for climate-conscious legal education, interdisciplinary curriculum reform, and participatory governance.With insights from Indian and Dutch scholars, the workshop addressed vulnerabilities of marginalized communities and stressed equity in policymaking. Overall, it strengthened collaborative research and showcased how law schools can lead in advancing
sustainable and just climate governance.

3) Faculty Development Program (June 2–6, 2025)

The five-day program equipped law faculty with the skills and resources needed to integrate climate law across the curriculum. It fostered interdisciplinary, issue-based dialogue and included hands-on exercises on curriculum restructuring. Covering both foundational and thematic aspects, it addressed pedagogical gaps, doctrinal boundaries, and innovative teaching methods. Through expert lectures and collaborative activities, the FDP encouraged participants to rethink traditional curricula in light of contemporary climate realities and strengthened a community of educators committed to climate-responsive legal education.

4) Climate Change Education Webinar Series ( Since June)

The series brings together experts who deliver sessions on key themes in climate science, law, policy, and interdisciplinary approaches. Each webinar offers insights into emerging climate challenges and innovative governance solutions. Specialists from environmental law, public policy, sustainability, and the social sciences enrich participants’ understanding of climate impacts. The series highlights practical strategies for integrating climate awareness into academic and professional spaces. Overall, the initiative creates a collaborative learning platform that strengthens participants’ capacity to engage with contemporary climate issues.

CALL FOR MEMBERS ( 2025- 2026)

We invite applications from students of Government Law College, Ernakulam, who are
passionate about environmental issues, climate justice, and sustainability.

CONTACT US

Email: indodutch.centre@gmail.com
Faculty Coordinator: Dr. Dayana M K: +91 99460 20305
Student Coordinators: Aparna C T: +91 7736 837796, Theresa Jobin: +91 85901 93020