On 9 April 2026, doctoral researchers from both universities convened for the second Bremen-Groningen PhD Researcher Meeting, this time co-chaired by Prof. Dr. Gralf-Peter Calliess (University of Bremen), Prof. Dr. Patrick C. Leyens (University of Bremen), and Dr. Benedikt Schmitz (University of Groningen).

The event focused on two distinct research projects: Jie Ouyang (Groningen) examined the concept of the "average consumer" and its potential to address the issue of greenwashing under the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive. The discussion focussed on how legal standards can protect consumers from misleading sustainability claims - a topic of growing societal relevance.

Paul Galyga (Bremen) presented a legal-historical analysis of judicial independence within the framework of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Of particular interest was the influence of a minority opinion from English common law on the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) - an example of how historical perspectives can enrich contemporary debates.

Whether in consumer protection or fundamental rights, the discussions demonstrated the fruitful exchange between different fields of law and legal cultures. The open and constructive atmosphere once again underscored the value of this format for academic networking.

The next Bremen-Groningen PhD Researcher Meeting is scheduled for October/November 2026.