The work of Viktoriya Polshakova, a graduate of the Master’s program "Law of International Trade and Dispute Resolution" at the Higher School of Economics (HSE), was specially recognized by the Council of the “International Law in the 21st Century” Award for 2024–2025.

🏆 The work of Viktoriya Polshakova, a graduate of the Master’s program “Law of International Trade and Dispute Resolution” at the Higher School of Economics (HSE), was specially recognized by the Council of the “International Law in the 21st Century” Award for 2024–2025.

🔍 In her research titled “The Protection of Foreign Investments in the Context of Armed Conflicts”, Viktoriya explores international legal mechanisms for investment protection during conflicts—through the lens of international treaties, human rights, and international humanitarian law. Particular attention is given to the colonial origins of investment law and its actual effectiveness in practice.

Using Colombia as a case study, the author arrives at an important conclusion: international legal regulation must take into account not only the interests of investors and states, but also the rights of local communities and Indigenous peoples, who remain vulnerable under the current system.

🎉 We congratulate Viktoriya on this well-deserved recognition and wish her continued success in her academic and professional journey!