By Fola Ademosu
The Bournemouth University has hosted the inaugural research conference of the Commercial & Maritime Law Research Group (CMLR) titled ‘Law, International Commerce & Technology in the 21st Century & Beyond.’
Held on Friday, December 9, 2022, the conference pulled together lawyers, legal innovators and scholars to review the prevailing legal challenges to technology deployments in international commercial activities.
Dr. Aniekan Akpan (convener) and Mr. Muyiwa Ayojimi (co-convener)–both accomplished lawyers and passionate tech enthusiasts–led the initiative.
Opening the dialogue, Professor Onyeka Osuji, the dean of Essex Law School, University of Essex advised that digital innovations, though advantageous to businesses particularly in our globalized world with pluralism of law, it however has its pitfalls and businesses must take responsibility when such occurs.
He also opined that individual businesses must be able to determine what technology is appropriate for their operations. On his own part, speaker Mr. Jordan Olotu – Principal Cyber Security Manager, Capgemini UK – emphasized that digital technology enhances business transformation though, the role of human persons remains critical as gatekeepers of cyber-related issues.
Another speaker, Ms Nisha Sheeba discussed the challenges facing the use of Blockchain technology in international commerce, specifically as it relates to legal contracts.
For the fourth speaker, Mr. Taribowei Ibori, managing the risks posed by the advent of autonomous vessels and developing stronger regulations for managing their operations is crucial for international maritime and safety.
In her closing remarks, Professor Katharine Cox, Head of Department for Humanities and Law, Bournemouth University, gave plaudits to Akpan and Ayojimi, the convener and co-convener of the tech-focused research conference.
She also praised the speakers and assured of the department’s support to the CMLR Group.
The CMLR says the event showcased the significance of technological innovation, as a change driver, in the 21st century commerce. It adds that the initiative will stimulate further discussions and researches on the matter.
In achieving this, the co-convener, Ayojimi said,
“We have been able to create opportunity for academia and industry to unite under the framework of Law, Technology and International Commerce. Going forward, the CMLR will collaborate with other relevant departments, universities, and stakeholders.”
*Fola Ademosu is a journalist with over a decade experience and covers the general beat
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