Paolo Farah@paolofarah2065
Paolo Davide Farah is a distinguished legal scholar, professor, and global authority in international economic law, environmental sustainability, and global trade policies. His career has fostered cooperation among nations to address some of the world's most critical challenges today, including environmental protection, trade ethics, and sustainable development. Through extensive academic contributions, advisory roles, and research, he has become a respected voice in international law, shaping policies and frameworks that influence governments, institutions, and global organizations. His expertise has been sought by international bodies, reinforcing his role as a leader in legal scholarship and policymaking.
Paolo's academic journey began with a strong foundation in legal studies at some of Europe’s most prestigious institutions. He earned a J.D. in International and European Law from Paris Ouest La Defense Nanterre University in France, establishing a robust base in legal principles that would guide his future research. He then pursued an LLM in European Legal Studies from the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium, further refining his expertise in cross-border legal issues and policy frameworks. His pursuit of knowledge did not stop there—he earned a dual PhD in International Law from Aix-Marseille University in France and the University of Milan in Italy. This advanced education gave him the skills and insights necessary to engage in high-level legal discourse and contribute meaningfully to global policy development.
Farah's career began in the dynamic world of international law, where he gained firsthand experience working on trade and legal policies at the highest levels. One of his earliest roles was at the Legal Affairs Division of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland, where he was exposed to global trade law and dispute resolution complexities. He then transitioned into private legal practice, joining the renowned law firm Baker & McKenzie in Milan, Italy. There, he specialized in international business law, navigating the intricacies of multinational legal frameworks and advising on corporate compliance, trade regulations, and cross-border transactions. This career period gave him valuable insights into the intersection of law, commerce, and policy, which later became the foundation for his academic and advisory roles.
Paolo Farah's contributions to academia have been extensive and impactful. He is a full professor at West Virginia University (WVU) within the John D. Rockefeller IV School of Policy and Politics at the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. He teaches various subjects in this role, including public administration, public policy, law, environmental policy, and energy justice. His ability to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications has made him a sought-after educator, inspiring students to engage in critical global issues. Beyond teaching, he is the Director of the Energy Justice and Just Transition Lab, a research initiative focused on equitable energy distribution, climate change adaptation, and economic justice for communities affected by energy transitions. His leadership extends further as the Coordinator of the Eberly College Interdisciplinary Research Collaborative, where he fosters cross-disciplinary partnerships to address global challenges such as environmental sustainability, human rights, and economic inequality.
Paolo's influence is not confined to the United States. He is an Internationally Renowned Professor of Law at Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) in China, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the perspectives of future international law professionals. His contributions to legal education extend beyond traditional classroom settings—since 2006, he has been the scientific director of the Summer Law Institute in China. This executive education training program brings legal professionals from around the world. This initiative has played a crucial role in advancing global legal education, equipping participants with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of international law and policy.
International organizations frequently seek Farah's expertise for legal advisory and consultancy work. He has been a consultant for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), where he has contributed to projects focused on sustainable development, economic policy, and governance. His work with the Italian Ministry of Economic Development and Commerce has helped shape economic policies that align with international legal standards. Additionally, his involvement with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has provided valuable insights into regulatory frameworks and policy recommendations that promote economic sustainability and international cooperation. His ability to translate legal principles into actionable policies has made him a key figure in the global legal landscape.
Paolo Davide Farah's research output is prolific and highly regarded in academic and policy circles. He has authored over 60 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, contributing to the scholarly discourse on international law, environmental policy, and sustainable development. His expertise is further demonstrated through his role as the editor-in-chief of three influential book series: Transnational Law and Governance and Global Law and Sustainable Development, both published by Routledge, and Global Issues, published by Palgrave Macmillan. Additionally, he serves as the editor of the Studies on Globalization series by Wolters Kluwer, further cementing his role as a thought leader in international legal research. His publications contribute to academic knowledge and serve as critical resources for policymakers, researchers, and legal professionals working on global governance issues.
Paolo has remained committed to fostering dialogue and collaboration across borders throughout his career. His ability to engage with policymakers, legal scholars, and industry professionals has allowed him to shape discussions on trade, environmental sustainability, and legal frameworks in an increasingly interconnected world. He has influenced international policies that promote fairness, sustainability, and global cooperation by combining academic rigor with practical insights. Paolo Farah’s dedication to education, research, and policy development has profoundly impacted the global legal landscape, positioning him as a leading figure in international law and environmental governance.