University of Virginia School of Law to Host Symposium on Democracy-Building in the Middle East

February 21, 2006 — The annual J.B. Moore Society of International Law Symposium, hosted by the University of Virginia School of Law, will address “Democracy in the Middle East: Prospect for Political Reform,” a day-long event with panel discussions on one of the most urgent political, economic and cultural issues of our time: democracy-building in the Middle East.

Panels will focus on problems faced by nations creating constitutions and specifically on problems Iraqi delegates are likely to have in solidifying their constitution. Speakers will assess the influence of President Bush’s policy on the democratic movement in the Middle East, consider the compatibility of democracy and religion, and the effect democracy may have on women in Islamic states.

The symposium will open with a brief talk by law school dean John Jeffries and will close with a reception, where visitors can speak informally with panelists. The event is free and open to the public.

To reserve one of the limited seats in Caplin Pavilion for the lunch and keynote speech, contact Justin Sher. For a complete schedule and list of panelists, visit the Moore Society of International Symposium Web site

For more information about the School of Law, please contact Michael Marshall, director of academic communications, at (434) 924-3763 or mjm3n@virginia.edu.

Media Contact