University of Toronto: Paul Martin, Convocation 2011 Honorary Degree recipient

TL;DR

Former Prime Minister Paul Martin discusses the importance of global law and the need for lawyers to adapt to the changing landscape of globalization.

Transcript

well thank you chancellor graham to begin with bill graham and i have known each other for a long time i you have said many things to me nothing like that and i must say that in the years to come i look forward to reminding you of every single word let me simply say that i hope sometimes someday i get the opportunity to reciprocate jim peterson and... Read More

Key Insights

• 👮 The career of Bill Graham is commendable, highlighting the importance of public service, law, and government.
• 🌍 The Global Professional Master of Laws program recognizes the need for lawyers to understand different legal systems and value systems in a globalized world.
• 🌐 Lawyers have a crucial role in reforming global governance institutions and creating a legal context for solving problems beyond national borders.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does Paul Martin emphasize the importance of public service, law, and government?

Paul Martin commends Bill Graham's outstanding career in public service, law, and government, highlighting the significance of these fields in shaping society and driving change.

Q: What is the Global Professional Master of Laws program, and why does Martin believe it is important?

The Global Professional Master of Laws program is a new initiative at the University of Toronto Law School. Martin believes it is crucial because in a globalized world, lawyers need to understand different legal systems and value systems to ensure the success of their clients.

Q: What does Martin believe is the role of lawyers in global governance?

Martin argues that lawyers should play a central role in reforming old institutions and building new ones to address the challenges of global governance. He emphasizes the need for a legal context to address the interdependence of nations.

Q: How does Martin suggest lawyers can strengthen national sovereignty and address global issues simultaneously?

Martin suggests that global rules, principles, and standards, when judicially enforced, do not infringe on national sovereignty but rather strengthen it. He believes that lawyers can enable national governments to solve problems that go beyond their borders, ensuring the benefits of interdependence outweigh the threats.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Former Prime Minister Paul Martin reflects on the career of Bill Graham and discusses the importance of public service, law, and government.

• Martin discusses his own experiences in law school and humorously shares his "miscarriage of justice" in the moot court.

• Martin highlights the new program at the University of Toronto Law School, the Global Professional Master of Laws, and its relevance in today's globalized world.