MIT-WPU Inaugurates Center for International Law, Refugee and Migration; Hosts Ambassador KP Fabian for Insightful Guest Lecture

Aug 18, 2025

The School of Law at MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), Pune, welcomed Hon'ble Ambassador (Prof.) KP Fabian, Former Ambassador, Indian Foreign Service, for a distinguished guest lecture and the inauguration of the Center for International Law, Refugee and Migration on 8 August 2025 at Chanakya Hall, Saraswati Building. The event brought together students, faculty, and distinguished guests for an engaging discussion on international diplomacy, refugee law, migration, and humanitarian challenges.

The programme commenced with an interaction between Ambassador Fabian and the faculty, where discussions focused on the evolving role of international law in global governance and the importance of equipping future legal professionals to address complex international challenges. The formal session began with the World Peace Prayer, followed by a welcome address and felicitation by Dr. Santosh Aghav, Dean, School of Law.

Delivering his keynote address on "International Diplomacy in the Context of Refugees and Migration," Ambassador Fabian highlighted the changing nature of diplomacy in the 21st century, emphasizing that modern diplomacy extends beyond state-to-state relations to encompass conflict resolution, climate action, migration, human rights, and global humanitarian concerns. He underscored the need for diplomats to balance national interests with global responsibilities while fostering peace and international cooperation.

Speaking on international refugee law, Ambassador Fabian explained the significance of the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, while highlighting the principle of non- refoulement and the ethical and legal responsibilities of nations towards displaced communities. He also discussed the distinction between refugees and economic migrants, the impact of globalization on migration, and India's longstanding humanitarian tradition of providing refuge to persecuted communities. The session encouraged students to critically examine the intersection of law, diplomacy, and global justice.

The interactive Q&A session witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, who raised questions on India's approach to the Rohingya refugee crisis, climate-induced migration, and the role of young legal professionals in advancing refugee rights. Drawing from his decades of diplomatic experience, Ambassador Fabian encouraged students to approach these global challenges with empathy, critical thinking, and a commitment to justice.

A key highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Center for International Law, Refugee and Migration, marking a significant milestone for the School of Law. The Centre aims to strengthen research, academic engagement, and policy dialogue in the areas of international law, migration studies, and refugee protection, while creating opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and global legal scholarship.

The event reaffirmed MIT-WPU's commitment to fostering globally aware legal professionals through experiential learning, academic excellence, and meaningful engagement with distinguished practitioners and policymakers. Ambassador KP Fabian's visit provided students with invaluable insights into contemporary international affairs while reinforcing the University's vision of nurturing socially responsible leaders equipped to address global challenges.