Global commerce and trade fundamentally impact business lawyers and—through economic development—provide a vehicle to promote impact in Washington and the world.
The Global Business Law Institute builds on UW Law’s strengths in comparative law and international programs, its established global network and the active involvement of world leaders from the business community. The Institute compliments robust programs within the law school — including intellectual property, tax, sustainable international development and law and entrepreneurship — and across the University, thus providing a strong interdisciplinary foundation.
The Global Business Law Institute benefits from the UW School of Law’s longstanding global network of companies, firms and universities. Joint projects with various international universities contribute to scholarship and broaden the student experience.
The Institute positions UW Law at the center of teaching, research, scholarship, policy and practice relating to global business law.
With gratitude, the Institute would like to recognize the invaluable contribution of Jeffrey Wool, one of the founding directors of the Institute, on his stepping down from its Advisory Board. Professor Wool’s vision, energy, and passion were instrumental in the successful launch of the Institute. His commitment and vision made possible the Institute’s early — and ongoing — partnerships with the global business community, support for developing scholars and students, and thought-leadership in teaching and innovation in the areas of international commercial law and corporate compliance, among others.
Seattle’s vibrant business community — with world leaders in global manufacturing, IT, retail and electronic commerce — allows the Global Business Law Institute to draw on the region’s expertise. The industry advisory board is a key element of the Institute, and members of the board include senior legal executives from prominent companies and law firms.
The new Global Business Law Institute Fellows cohort is drawn to challenges in global business and making a positive impact.
The Global Business Law Institute is pleased to share that the article “Exploring the Future of Global ESG – Disclosures and Reporting Requirements” was published in the Global Governance, Compliance & Integrity Yearbook 2025.
A summer visit to Singapore taught lessons in business law culture to the GBLI Fellows.