To set the scene, Prof. Klabbers presented a few examples of how international organizations operate in today’s world. Even though they are widely believed to act in the public interest, they also increasingly engage with the private sector. In doing so, they no longer serve as vehicles for states but gain an autonomous role in international affairs. To account for these developments, Prof. Klabbers emphasized the importance of developing a political economy of international organizations law. He also explained how this new vision could be informed by his theory of supra-functionalism, which seeks to critically interrogate the functions performed by international organizations.

After his presentation, Prof. Klabbers engaged in a dialogue with Dr. Craig Eggett and Dr. Monica Garcia-Salmones Rovira, who presented some short comments.

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