On 11 June 2025, the Faculty of Law at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem hosted the prestigious Lionel Cohen Annual Lecture, a flagship event marking both the 75th anniversary of the Faculty and the University’s centenary year. This year’s lecture brought together two of the legal world’s most distinguished figures: Lord Pannick KC, renowned barrister and Crossbench Peer in the House of Lords, and Dorit Beinisch, former President of the Supreme Court of Israel and a trailblazer for women in the Israeli legal system.
A Unique Legal Conversation
Held in the Mishael Cheshin Center for Advanced Legal Studies, the event drew a diverse audience of students, faculty, alumni, and legal professionals. Lord Pannick and Justice Beinisch engaged in a wide-ranging conversation exploring the deep and enduring connections between the Israeli and British legal systems. Their discussion highlighted the shared legal heritage, the evolution of the rule of law, and the influence of British legal principles on Israeli jurisprudence since the founding of the State of Israel.
The speakers reflected on the codex and legal traditions that underpin both countries’ legal frameworks, tracing common history from Magna Carta to modern constitutional challenges. They examined how legal values such as access to justice, judicial independence, and the protection of individual rights have shaped—and continue to shape—both societies.
Ongoing Relevance and Impact
The Lionel Cohen Lecture series, established in 1953, has long served as a bridge between legal communities in Israel and the United Kingdom4. This year’s event was particularly timely, offering a forum for open dialogue on the evolving challenges faced by courts and lawmakers in both countries. The lively Q&A session that followed the lecture allowed attendees to engage directly with the speakers, further enriching the conversation.
A Lasting Legacy
The success of this year’s lecture underscores the ongoing importance of international legal exchange and the value of learning from shared history. As the Faculty of Law celebrates its 75th anniversary and the Hebrew University marks a century of academic excellence, the Lionel Cohen Lecture continues to inspire new generations of legal scholars and practitioners.
For those who were unable to attend, a full recording of the lecture and Q&A, as well as event photographs, are now available. We invite you to revisit these thought-provoking discussions and celebrate the enduring partnership between Israeli and British law.
Watch the full lecture and Q&A:
2025 Lionel Cohen Lecture – Full Recording
The Lionel Cohen Annual Lecture is held at the Hebrew University Faculty of Law and continues to foster dialogue, scholarship, and friendship between the legal communities of Israel and the UK.
