Introduction
This essay explores the significance of selecting a pertinent dissertation topic in the field of international business and corporate law, an area of legal study that intersects global commerce with regulatory frameworks. For law students, the choice of a dissertation topic not only shapes their academic journey but also influences their future professional expertise. The purpose of this essay is to identify and critically discuss potential dissertation topics within this domain, focusing on contemporary issues such as cross-border mergers, corporate governance, and intellectual property protection in a globalised economy. By outlining these themes, this piece aims to offer a broad understanding of the field, address the applicability of certain topics, and provide a starting point for undergraduate research with limited but clear critical engagement.
Cross-Border Mergers and Acquisitions: Legal Challenges
One prominent area for dissertation research is the legal framework surrounding cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&As). The increasing globalisation of markets has led to a surge in such transactions, which are often fraught with complex regulatory challenges across jurisdictions. For instance, differences in antitrust laws between the European Union and the United States can significantly impact the viability of a merger (Whish and Bailey, 2018). A dissertation in this area could explore how harmonisation—or the lack thereof—affects deal outcomes, with a focus on recent high-profile cases like the failed merger between Siemens and Alstom in 2019 due to EU competition concerns. While the topic offers a wealth of material, its limitation lies in the rapid evolution of legal standards, which may outpace academic analysis. Nevertheless, this area demonstrates the relevance of international business law in addressing real-world economic activities.
Corporate Governance in Multinational Corporations
Another compelling topic is corporate governance within multinational corporations (MNCs). Governance structures must often balance compliance with diverse national laws while maintaining ethical standards across borders. Issues such as executive remuneration, shareholder rights, and board accountability remain contentious, particularly in light of scandals like the Volkswagen emissions case, which highlighted governance failures on a global scale (Tricker, 2019). A dissertation could critically examine how corporate governance codes, such as the UK Corporate Governance Code, adapt to international pressures, and whether a universal standard is feasible. This topic allows for an evaluation of multiple perspectives, though it requires careful navigation of extensive and sometimes contradictory sources. Generally, it offers scope for straightforward research into policy documents and case studies, fostering a logical argument with supporting evidence.
Intellectual Property Rights in Global Trade
Finally, intellectual property (IP) rights in the context of global trade present a rich field for exploration. With the digital economy expanding, protecting IP across borders has become increasingly complex, particularly with issues like patent infringement and trademark disputes in e-commerce platforms. A dissertation could investigate the effectiveness of international agreements like the TRIPS Agreement in safeguarding IP, while considering limitations such as enforcement disparities in developing economies (Correa, 2020). This topic showcases the intersection of law and technology, though it demands a sound understanding of intricate legal texts. Indeed, it provides an opportunity to apply specialist skills in legal analysis to a contemporary problem.
Conclusion
In summary, selecting a dissertation topic in international business and corporate law offers undergraduate students a chance to engage with pressing global issues, from cross-border M&As to corporate governance and IP rights. Each area presents unique legal challenges and opportunities for critical analysis, supported by a range of academic sources and real-world examples. Furthermore, these topics highlight the dynamic nature of the field, though they also reveal limitations in harmonising legal frameworks across jurisdictions. The implications of such research are significant, as they contribute to shaping policies that govern international commerce. Therefore, students are encouraged to pursue topics that not only align with their interests but also address gaps in current legal discourse, thereby enhancing both academic and practical understanding of this vital area of law.
References
- Correa, C. M. (2020) Intellectual Property and International Trade: The TRIPS Agreement. Kluwer Law International.
- Tricker, R. I. (2019) Corporate Governance: Principles, Policies, and Practices. Oxford University Press.
- Whish, R. and Bailey, D. (2018) Competition Law. Oxford University Press.
