Lana Issa completed her Law in Society Bachelor’s degree in 2024, and looks back on the programme with fond memories. 'The law courses focus on current issues, and you develop strong skills in teamwork, debate, presentation and openness to different viewpoints.' She’s now pursuing a Master of Laws at the London School of Economics.
'I’m of Kurdish descent and grew up internationally. I wanted to choose a study programme that truly suited me – one that would help answer my lifelong question of why the international system does not recognise my people’s right to self-determination and a homeland. It was this question that sparked my interest in law. Law in Society at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam appealed to me the most because it allowed me to work on pressing contemporary issues – not through the traditional approach of studying legal codes, but through an interdisciplinary and forward-thinking perspective on law.'
'For example, we explored how different areas of law intersect in addressing urgent global challenges. From a political perspective, we examined conflicts such as Israel-Palestine. We also looked at environmental issues, including how citizens can hold corporations accountable and what their legal rights are in bringing about change through civil disobedience. What stood out most to me was the mixed classroom concept. You collaborate with fellow international students, each bringing their own perspectives and backgrounds. In addition to learning about legal fields, we also developed skills like presenting, debating and empathising with different viewpoints. The programme fosters a culture of mutual respect, where diverse opinions are valued and encouraged.'
Developing a broad perspective
'I’ve defended viewpoints that contradicted my own beliefs. This taught me to think from other perspectives and develop alternative arguments. It broadened my legal, personal and societal outlook. Now that I’m pursuing my Master’s degree in London, I see how much of an advantage I have compared with my peers. I collaborate easily and focus on finding solutions rather than simply arguing my own position.'
'In my third year, I interned one day a week at the Center for International Criminal Justice (CICJ). The CICJ was looking for a Law in Society student who spoke Swedish. Since I’d lived in Sweden and experienced social and political challenges there, I applied. My research focused on the factors influencing the transmission of extremist ideologies within families, and the legal and social measures that can prevent this and protect children.'
