NOVA School of Law and Antas da Cunha Ecija establish cooperation protocol

NOVA School of Law and the Antas da Cunha Ecija law firm have signed a cooperation protocol aimed at strengthening institutional ties, promoting joint projects, and enhancing the impact of both institutions within the national and European legal communities.

This partnership forms part of the NOVA School of Law’s strategic plan for the period from 2022 to 2026, based on three core objectives: providing excellence in education, conducting top-level research that is recognised both nationally and internationally, and contributing to the sustainable development of society.

Through this collaboration, the School is reinforcing its commitment to innovation in teaching, internationalisation — with a particular focus on Europe — and the study of emerging challenges arising from technological transformation.

The protocol also has special symbolic value as it honours the legacy of José Luís da Cruz Vilaça, partner at Antas da Cunha Ecija and a leading figure in European Union law. He played a key role in Portugal’s accession to the European Communities, in shaping the framework of competition policy, and in holding prominent positions at the Court of Justice of the European Union, leaving an indelible mark on both European and national legal history.

NOVA School of Law further recognises the contribution that José Luís da Cruz Vilaça has made to the development of its educational project as a lecturer of pioneering courses in European Union law, and as a member of NOVA University’s governing bodies.

Research will be one of the central pillars of this partnership, working closely with CEDIS (the Centre for Research & Development on Law and Society), thereby reinforcing NOVA School of Law’s presence in international funded research networks.