Global Power and Technology

About

This course introduces students to the legal and policy dimensions of rule-making in the tech sector, focusing on key areas such as internal market regulation, competition law, intellectual property law, and the geopolitical challenges surrounding technological development.

Global competition for leadership in technology development has intensified. Recent legal and policy initiatives in the EU, the US, and China highlight that the race for technological dominance involves not just companies but also states. Central to this competition are technical standards—written rules that enable technologies to function, drive innovation, and facilitate technological progress. Well-known examples include standards for Wi-Fi and 5G. Understanding the legal, economic, and policy aspects of technology standardization is increasingly vital for future legal and policy professionals seeking to grasp the global dynamics of technological power.

While the primary focus of this summer school is on the EU, the course will also examine other key jurisdictions, including the US and China.

The programme includes interactive lectures, a simulation exercise, and on-site visits to relevant institutions. While some knowledge of European law—particularly competition law—is recommended, the course is also accessible to participants new to these areas. For more details, please contact the course director.

The course is endorsed by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute.

Course leader

Olia Kanevskaia

Target group

This course targets (advanced) master students with a basic knowledge and understanding of competition law, and professionals of different disciplines, including engineering and management, who have experienced working with standards.

Bachelor students and other professionals may also apply for the course - please contact the course director in case of doubt.

Course aim

The course aims to equip students with the knowledge on technical standardization, focusing on different legal and policy aspects that pertain these industry rules. The course will be beneficial for those wanting to get a deeper knowledge and understanding in the areas of competition law, administrative law and intellectual property law, in particular utility patents. This course will also be beneficial for professionals who have been working with standards in the high tech sector and are willing to understand the variety of legal aspects around standardization.

Fee info