Erasmus University establishes chair “The Future of Maritime Law”
As of December 1, 2025, Erasmus University Rotterdam has established the Chair on “The Future of Maritime Law.” The chair will focus on strengthening and future-proofing maritime law while encouraging young talent to pursue careers in this vital field.
Why future-proof maritime law?
The maritime sector faces major challenges, including sustainability, digitization, and energy transition. Maritime law must evolve to provide frameworks that enable innovation and guide the sector through these changes. The chair will combine research and education to address key questions shaping the future of international shipping and ports in the coming decades, contributing to both the Netherlands and global trade. After all, 90% of goods worldwide are transported by sea at some point.
Collaboration with the market
The chair is made possible through collaboration with leading market players in the maritime sector. Insurers, shipowners, insurance brokers, and maritime expertise agencies are investing in knowledge development to strengthen the legal and operational frameworks of the industry. By working together, the university and the business community are creating a robust foundation that reinforces the competitiveness of the Netherlands and Europe.
“All developments (alternative fuels, sustainability and transport law itself) also require the correct legal interpretation.”
The success of the chair depends not only on research, but also on inspiring students to specialize in maritime law. “What is unknown cannot be loved. This chair will give more students the opportunity to explore maritime law and pursue careers in practice,” says Jolien Kruit, professor of The Future of Maritime Law and attorney-at-law with Van Traa Advocaten.
Daniella de Lint, Claims Director at MSIG Specialty Marine: “The maritime industry is developing rapidly. Investing in knowledge and talent is essential to guarantee a sustainable future. We are proud that MSIG Specialty Marine is able to make a meaningful contribution to this.”
Joint effort of the entire sector
This initiative brings together the expertise and support of MSIG Specialty Marine (main sponsor), the Royal Association of Netherlands Shipowners (KVNR), the Dutch Transport Law Association (NVV), JR Shipping, Anchor Insurance, Sedgwick, Van Ameyde Marine, Dutch Forwarders Association FENEX, Dutch P&I, Arntz van Helden, and DUPI Underwriting Agency. Their collaboration highlights the importance of bridging academia and practice to shape the future of maritime law.
With the establishment of this chair, Erasmus University aims to ensure that maritime law not only responds to changes, but actively helps to shape them. The integration of sustainability and digitization into the curriculum will equip students and professionals with the knowledge to navigate the complex legal landscape of international shipping and ports, securing the Netherlands’ role as a global maritime leader.
“The KVNR is sponsoring this chair, and we are very pleased that Jolien Kruit will be fulfilling it.”
