The End in Sight
A Brief History of Eastern European Legal Studies
Deutsche Fassung
Abstract
Jurisprudential scholarship on Eastern Europe had deep roots in the Federal Republic of Germany. During the East-West conflict, there existed a well-grounded, differentiated body of expertise. The focus was on public and constitutional law, as well as comparative law. The upheaval of 1989/1991, changing priorities at law faculties, and the shortsightedness of universities and government departments have led to the decline of Eastern European legal studies. It faces extinction. Yet, there is a great need in political circles and the general public for in-depth legal knowledge on Eastern Europe. The Centre for East European and International Studies (ZOiS) should assume responsibility, change its research profile, and become a platform for rebuilding legal expertise on Eastern Europe.
(Osteuropa 8-9/2025, pp. 135–150)