Professor Iurii Barabash, a world-renowned Ukrainian judge appointed by President Volodymyr Zelensky and a leading constitutional law expert, has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws by Edge Hill University in Ormskirk. The honour recognises his tireless work in building international legal ties and fostering academic collaboration between Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
Honorary Doctorate for Legal Scholarship
Professor Barabash, who serves as Vice-Rector at Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University in Kharkiv, has published nearly 160 scientific works and was recently appointed as a judge on the Constitutional Court of Ukraine. The honorary doctorate was conferred during Edge Hill's week-long graduation celebrations, where he addressed the graduating class of the School of Law and Criminal Justice.
Strengthening UK-Ukraine Academic Links
The partnership between Edge Hill University and Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University has been significantly strengthened by the UK-Ukraine Twin for Hope initiative. This collaboration has delivered impactful projects, including a summer school, academic exchanges, joint research, an edited book, and a shared postgraduate LLM programme. Staff and students from the Ukrainian university have also participated in key Edge Hill events, such as a UK Parliamentary research and networking event, fostering international cooperation during an exceptionally challenging period for Ukraine.
Quotes from the Ceremony
Receiving the award, Professor Barabash said: “Receiving this Honorary Doctorate from Edge Hill University is a profound honour and a deeply meaningful recognition of the work we have done to strengthen international academic collaboration. I am especially grateful for the partnership between Edge Hill University and Ukraine, which reflects the enduring value of education, dialogue and shared commitment in challenging times.”
Addressing the class of 2026, he urged graduates: “Your education is your shield and the law is your sword. Never forget that behind every statute and contract is a real person’s life. Fight fiercely for the truth, defend human rights with unwavering resolve and let this degree be just the beginning of a remarkable career.”
University Praise for Diplomatic Leadership
Professor George Talbot, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Knowledge Exchange) at Edge Hill University, praised Professor Barabash's leadership. “This award is a fitting recognition of his outstanding contribution to international diplomacy, scholarship and the strengthening of academic and cultural ties between Ukraine and the United Kingdom. His leadership during a period of profound challenge for Ukraine has been marked by integrity, resilience and a deep commitment to democratic values. Edge Hill is proud to honour a figure whose work exemplifies the power of education, dialogue and global partnership.”
Ongoing Collaboration Amid Conflict
Professor Barabash also delivered a presentation on the development of constitutional principles for the protection of human rights during military aggression, as part of the graduation ceremony. The partnership continues to build crucial academic and cultural bridges between Lancashire and Ukraine during a pivotal time in history, underscoring the enduring value of international education and solidarity.
