Our latest publications

• Banet, Catherine (2026). The Cybersecurity Dimension of Wind Power Technologies: Applicability of EU Cybersecurity Regulation to Offshore Wind Projects. In Barichella, Arnault & Yada, Jurei (Ed.), The Palgrave Handbook of Cybersecurity, Technologies and Energy Transitions. Springer Nature. ISSN 9783031041969. p. 1–16. doi: https:/link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-3-031-04196-9_18-1. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Offshore wind farms (OWFs) are increasingly exposed to cyberattacks in Europe, reflecting the intersection of two major trends: the expansion of renewable energy sources and the digitalization of the energy system. Because OWFs contribute significantly to Europe’s energy independence, they attract attention from geopolitical and commercial adversaries. Their vulnerability is heightened by their remote offshore locations, which necessitate extensive use of networked devices and digital connections to shore. These installations often lack robust cyber protection, and their complex supply chains—with many vendors, suppliers, and interdependencies—create numerous potential entry points for attackers. Cyberattacks on OWFs can have cross-border impacts, especially for “hybrid” projects that link multiple national electricity systems. This increases the need for regional coordination on the physical and cyber protection of critical offshore energy infrastructure among operators and project developers. The chapter explores whether OWFs, given their operational characteristics, remoteness, and sometimes cross-jurisdictional nature, need a specific cybersecurity regulatory framework or whether existing onshore rules are sufficient. The chapter examines how EU cybersecurity regulation applies at sea in European waters and neighboring countries, before reviewing and commenting on the main EU legal requirements relevant to the cybersecurity of offshore energy infrastructure. Key instruments include the Critical Entities Resilience Directive, the NIS2 Directive, the Cyber Resilience Act, the Cybersecurity Act, the network code on cybersecurity for electricity, and associated standards.

• Ånestad, Ingvild (2026). TSOs as System Operators, Capacity Allocators or Market Makers in the Financial Energy Markets When Buying and Selling EPADs? European Environmental Law Review. ISSN 0966-1646. 35(3/4), p. 94–104. doi: 10.54648/eelr2026010. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  This article examines the evolving role of the Transmission System Operator (TSO) in the aftermath of the 2021–2022 energy crisis with a particular focus on their involvement in the financial electricity markets through Electricity Price Area Differential (EPAD)-coupling. The Commission Regulation (EU) 2016/1719 of 26 September 2016 Establishing a Guideline on Forward Capacity Allocation (FCA Regulation) requires that the national regulatory authorities intervene when market failure is detected, this intervention requires that the TSOs take steps to ensure liquidity in the market. The article questions whether the role of the TSO as a provider of liquidity in the financial electricity market clashes with the fine-tuned structure of EU’s market design. Through an analysis of recent disputes between national regulators the article illustrates legal and structural concerns associated with the TSOs involvement, potentially creating conflicts of interest for TSOs and challenging the principle of unbundling which is fundamental to EU`s electricity market design (EMD). The article argues that the expansion of TSO responsibilities through financial transmission rights (FTRs) and now through EPAD-coupling, marks a shift in the regulatory understanding of the TSO’s role, with limited public debate on the implications.

• Makroum, Reda El; Banet, Catherine; Fan, Yee Van; Waaler, Benedicte Fasmer; Gamazaychikov, Boris & Gros, Sébastien [Show all 14 contributors for this article] (2026). Governing AI infrastructure on decarbonizing grids. Joule. doi: 10.1016/j.joule.2026.102647. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  In this article, the authors argue that a sustainable data center buildout requires tying grid access to flexibility provision, operational transparency, and tangible benefits for both host communities and society at large. The community dimension is particularly urgent: in 2019, public outcry forced Norway to halt all new onshore wind licensing for three years. As of 2026, the country is on track to miss its 2030 wind objective of 25 TWh, with only a single new wind farm built since the moratorium ended. Without tangible local benefit, data centers risk becoming the next flashpoint.

• Baldursson, Fridrik; Banet, Catherine & Chyong, Chi Kong (2026). Regulation and Standards for a Resilient European Energy System. Economics of Energy & Environmental Policy. ISSN 2160-5882. 15(1), p. 1–26. doi: 10.5547/2160-5890.15.1.fbal. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Increasing climate- related hazards demand a more resilient system that can with stand, adapt, and quickly recover from such shocks. Simultaneously, the drive towards a cleaner energy system, a rapid rise in renewables, and increased sector integration have led to a less stable system that is more volatile than before and more vulnerable to shocks. This development calls for more and better energy-network system services. EU energy legislation addresses specific sides of resilience. Grid planning involves specific resilience assessment requirements for regulators as part of the network development plans. However, resilience must be better integrated and defined as a mandatory assessment requirement. Some national regulatory authorities have already incorporated resilience in their frameworks, but we argue that a targeted regulatory and legislative approach at the EU level is also needed. The benefits of resilience investments must be measured and monetised to be adequately incentivised and included in CBA analyses. In particular, due to the increased coupling between the gas and electricity sectors, new resilience metrics that reflect the growing interdependence and feedback between the two sectors are needed. We examine several approaches to measuring resilience and suggest an approach to monetisation.

• Fjordbo, Gullik & Sætervadet, Torkell (2026). Har Høyesteretts avgjørelser selvstendig EØS-rettslig betydning? Jussens Venner. ISSN 0022-6971. 61(1-2), p. 86–86. doi: 10.18261/jv.61.1-2.4. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  I juridisk litteratur synes noen forfattere å antyde at Høyesteretts tolkninger av EØS-avtalen kan ha betydning utover argumentenes overbevisningskraft i en folkerettslig kontekst. Denne artikkelen undersøker om et samlet rettskildebilde, herunder EØS-avtalen artikkel 106 om utveksling av dommer mellom domstolene, taler for det samme. Undersøkelsen viser at Høyesteretts tolkninger av EØS-avtalen ikke har selvstendig EØS-rettslig betydning på folkerettslig plan. Følgelig er verken Islands Høyesterett, ESA eller EFTA-domstolen forpliktet til å ta Norges Høyesteretts tolkninger av EØS-avtalen i betraktning. Dette gjelder både for det indre markeds felles regler og for såkalte EØS-spesifikke spørsmål. En avgjørelse fra Høyesterett kan imidlertid inngå i rettslig dialog og indirekte få betydning som følge av argumentenes overbevisningskraft. Dessuten kan nasjonal rettspraksis tjene til å identifisere felles rettsoppfatninger blant EØS-statene og i så fall indirekte påvirke tolkningen av EØS-avtalen.

• Kaarstad, Magnhild; Holte, Even Ambros; Madsen, Andreas Nygard; Tailoussane, Ayoub; Kwei-Narh, Prosper A. & Braseth, Alf Ove (2026). Sailing into the future with periodically unmanned bridges—a viable concept for mitigating seafarer shortages? Maritime Transport Research. 10, p. 1–18. doi: 10.1016/j.martra.2026.100151. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The maritime industry, particularly deep-sea operations, is facing increasing challenges related to crew shortages, fatigue, and compliance with rest and work-hour regulations. One proposed solution is the concept of a periodically unmanned bridge (B0), in which the bridge may remain unattended under certain operational conditions (e.g. open sea, clear weather, no technical defects). However, safe implementation of B0 requires addressing human, technological and regulatory challenges. This exploratory study presents one of the first empirical evaluations of B0 operations using a full-mission bridge simulator. Eight experienced navigators were interviewed after completing four realistic operational scenarios under two conditions: continuous bridge manning and B0. Post-scenario interviews were triangulated with data on navigator performance, workload ratings, and Situational Awareness (SA) measures. Participants highlighted opportunities and concerns related to B0, particularly regarding trust in automation, failure detection and the need for rapid re-engagement following alarms. They also noted that the concept may require new forms of training, information presentation, and decision-support systems. Results for performance, workload, and situational awareness were broadly similar between the two bridge types. Although tentative due to the limited sample size, the findings indicated a potential advantage for anticipatory situational awareness (projection) in the B0 condition. Overall, the findings suggest that B0 may be feasible within constrained operational envelopes, if alarm strategies, training, and human-automation interaction are carefully designed. The study contributes early empirical evidence to inform the development of decision-support requirements and regulatory adaptations in ongoing discussions regarding the potential implementation of periodically unmanned bridges.

• Solvang, Trond (2026). Contributory negligence and ship collisions. MarIus. ISSN 0332-7868. p. 47–58. Full text in Research Archive
• Pozdnakova, Alla (2026). Freedom of international maritime transport services in EU: a short commentary on C-413/24 Vlaams Gewest v P&O North Sea Ferries Limited. MarIus. ISSN 0332-7868. 596, p. 37–46. Full text in Research Archive
• Wilhelmsen, Trine-Lise (2026). Insurance of political risk under the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan– some reflections post the Heroic Idun case. MarIus. ISSN 0332-7868. p. 7–36. Full text in Research Archive
• Middleton, Alexandra & Pozdnakova, Alla (2026). Arctic Deep Seabed Mining: a Comparative Analysis of Norway's Approach and Global Sustainability and Accountability Concerns. The Yearbook of Polar Law. ISSN 1876-8814. 17(2025), p. 145–175. doi: https:/brill.com/view/journals/yplo/17/1/article-p145_8.xml. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  In 2024, Norway’s parliament approved a plan to open vast ocean areas, including Arctic waters, for commercial deep-sea mining exploration, sparking international opposition due to environmental concerns. This article conducts a comparative analy sis of legal preconditions for deep-sea mining globally, focusing on key aspects such as the application of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) processes, the robust ness of sustainability regulations, the nature of environmental commitments, and the effectiveness of accountability mechanisms. The Norwegian regulatory framework serves as a case study. Key findings demonstrate that both international approaches and the Norwegian framework require further refinement and alignment with global environmental protection mechanisms to provide robust accountability for environ mental protection. Amidst the international community’s call for a moratorium and further scientific research, this analysis concludes that the development of tailored sustainability regulations and, most critically, a truly robust and enforceable account ability system are imperative to protect the vulnerable Arctic ecosystem if such mining activities are to be considered

• Alvik, Ivar (2026). Om uriktige og bristende forutsetninger og den såkalte forutsetningslæren – en kritisk analyse. Tidsskrift for Rettsvitenskap. ISSN 0040-7143. 139(1), p. 138–138. doi: 10.18261/tfr.139.1.1. Full text in Research Archive
• Banet, Catherine (2025). Central Grids as Common Goods? Implications for the Regulatory Model of Transmission Electricity Grid in the Age of Distributed Energy Resources. European Energy and Environmental Law Review. ISSN 1879-3886. 34(6), p. 130–141. doi: 10.54648/eelr2025013. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  This article examines the interaction between centralized and decentralized energy systems, and more specifically the evolving role and regulatory model of transmission electricity grids in facilitating the deployment of distributed energy resources (DERs). The central electricity grid is essential for ensuring security of supply, but it faces new challenges when more decentralized, intermittent renewable energy and flexible demand are added to the energy system. The total blackout that occurred on 28 April 2025 in the Iberian Peninsula illustrates these challenges. In this new transmission-DER nexus, a fundamental question is whether central electricity grids should be considered a common good, and if so, what this entails in terms of regulatory model and legal requirements. After a brief introduction, the article reviews the definition of common goods and explores the extent to which it applies to the transmission electricity grid and the consequences thereof. Gaps in existing regulatory model under European Union (EU) law are identified, discussing the role of transmission system operators with respect to decentralized actors and vice versa, focusing on five specific areas of interaction: grid planning, grid investment regulation, grid capacity management and system costs, balancing duties, and resource adequacy. As operations become more complex, the use of digital tools for DER management systems is raised. The conclusion presents the possible legal approaches to address the identified shortcomings in the central grid regulatory model.

• Høivik, Knut; Seglem, Heidi Eikenes; Dyrland, Sondre & Grytten, Camilla (2025). Coupling of Petroleum, Offshore Wind, and CCS: Scopes, Interfaces, and Coordination of Licensing Regimes – The Norwegian Experience. In Anchustegui, Ignacio Herrera; Taylor, Madeline; Pereira, Eduardo G. & Wifa, Eddy (Ed.), Offshore Energy Law: Challenges and Opportunities for Renewables and Hydrocarbons. Hart Publishing Ltd. ISSN 9781509964390. p. 301–324. doi: 10.5040/9781509964420.ch-014. Full text in Research Archive
• Banet, Catherine (2025). Norway: Regulation of Flaring and Venting of Natural Gas from Petroleum Activities in Norway. In Pereira, Eduardo Guedes; Omotuyi, Opeyemi Y. & Dukuma, Magnus C. Abraham (Ed.), Natural Gas Flaring & Energy Transition: Laws, Policies and Regulations. Wolters Kluwer. ISSN 9789403526171. Full text in Research Archive
• Ringbom, Henrik (2025). Havsrätten om misstänkta sabotagefartyg .. Tidskrift i Sjöväsendet. ISSN 0040-6945. 2025(¨1), p. 45–59. Full text in Research Archive
• Falkanger, Thor (2025). Sampantspørsmål - inter partes og i forhold til tredjeperson. In Lie, Markus Hoel; Steinsvik, Kine; Magnussen, Roger Stelander; Solheim, Stig H.; Eriksen, Gunnar Ketil; Pedersen, Jussi Erik; Ravna, Øyvind & Falkanger, Aage Thor (Ed.), Vidsyn og skjønn : festskrift til Jens Edvin A. Skoghøy på 70-årsdagen 16. februar 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215067414. p. 149–164. Full text in Research Archive
• Arnesen, Finn (2025). Helt som alle andre? In Lie, Markus Hoel; Steinsvik, Kine; Magnussen, Roger Stelander; Solheim, Stig H.; Eriksen, Gunnar Ketil; Pedersen, Jussi Erik; Ravna, Øyvind & Falkanger, Aage Thor (Ed.), Vidsyn og skjønn : festskrift til Jens Edvin A. Skoghøy på 70-årsdagen 16. februar 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215067414. p. 13–20. Full text in Research Archive
• Wilhelmsen, Trine-Lise (2025). Forsikringsavtaleretten som obligasjonrettslig fag - utviklingslinjer og refleksjoner. In Bull, Hans Jacob; Bäcklund, Agneta; Herre, Johnny; Ramberg, Christina & Schelin, Johan (Ed.), Festskrift till Svante O. Johansson. Jure. ISSN 9789172239685. p. 897–913. Full text in Research Archive
• Pozdnakova, Alla (2025). Compensation for damages caused by EU competition law infrigenements in the maritime transport section. In Bull, Hans Jacob; Bäcklund, Agneta; Herre, Johnny; Ramberg, Christina & Schelin, Johan (Ed.), Festskrift till Svante O. Johansson. Jure. ISSN 9789172239685. p. 541–555. Full text in Research Archive
• Falkanger, Thor (2025). Lovvalg ved bestillers rett til å velge motorleverandør til nybygg - HR-2024-2330. In Bull, Hans Jacob; Bäcklund, Agneta; Herre, Johnny; Ramberg, Christina & Schelin, Johan (Ed.), Festskrift till Svante O. Johansson. Jure. ISSN 9789172239685. p. 277–283. Full text in Research Archive
• Ringbom, Henrik (2025). New Threats—Old Rules: Law of the Sea Issues Raised by Suspected Attacks on Submarine Infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. Ocean Development and International Law. ISSN 0090-8320. 56(3), p. 390–414. doi: 10.1080/00908320.2025.2534621. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Recent enforcement actions in the Baltic Sea against vessels suspected of sabotaging submarine infrastructure in international waters raise important law of the sea issues. This article considers the right of states to take enforcement measures against ships that are suspected of having damaged cables and pipelines on the high seas or in their exclusive economic zone (EEZ). It also addresses other rules of international law of potential relevance to the matter. It concludes that even if the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) does not provide for specific enforcement jurisdiction for non-flag states, there are certain opportunities to take enforcement measures, depending on the nature of the threat and the level of evidence. Some measures aimed at improving legal clarity in this field are reviewed, separately for the global, regional and national governance levels.

• Hauge, Katrine Broch (2025). Licensing Offshore Wind in Norway: Integrating Sustainability Requirements Such as Nature Positivity. Ocean Development and International Law. ISSN 0090-8320. 56(4), p. 645–669. doi: 10.1080/00908320.2025.2587936. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Development of offshore wind is crucial for Norway to achieve its climate and renewable energy targets. This article examines Norway’s licensing system for offshore wind through the lens of sustainability criteria, particularly focusing on the integration of nature positivity. Using the Sørlige Nordsjø II licensing process as an illustration, the article highlights dilemmas surrounding the implications of terminology used in the pre-qualification stage, which may influence the final design of concessions. It explores the suitability of existing legal frameworks, particularly the Offshore Energy Act (OEA), for implementing sustainability criteria and emphasizes the need for balancing innovative terms in the license with predictable processes for stakeholders. Norway’s ambitions for 30 GW of offshore wind energy by 2040 underscore the significance of a solid regulatory foundation that can adequately support these sustainability goals.

• Bull, Hans Jacob (2025). Foreldelse av direktekrav i ansvarsforsikring. In Bull, Hans Jacob; Bäcklund, Agneta; Herre, Johnny; Ramberg, Christina & Schelin, Johan (Ed.), Festskrift till Svante O. Johansson. Jure. ISSN 9789172239685. p. 137–161. Full text in Research Archive
• Wilhelmsen, Trine-Lise (2025). Forsikring av "plutselig skade" - begrep og alternativer. In Alvik, Ivar; Arnesen, Finn & Michalsen, Dag (Ed.), Om nasjonens forfatning - festskrift til Ola Mestad på 70-årsdagen 8. desember 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215075334. p. 480–497. Full text in Research Archive
• Kaasen, Knut (2025). Forsering: Kontraktsregulering og operative utfordringer. In Alvik, Ivar; Arnesen, Finn & Michalsen, Dag (Ed.), Om nasjonens forfatning - festskrift til Ola Mestad på 70-årsdagen 8. desember 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215075334. p. 279–297. Full text in Research Archive
• Johansson, Bror Svante O. (2025). Hur avgör man vilka följder ett prejudikat kommer att få? Exemplet skadeståndsansvar i avtalsförhållande. In Alvik, Ivar; Arnesen, Finn & Michalsen, Dag (Ed.), Om nasjonens forfatning - festskrift til Ola Mestad på 70-årsdagen 8. desember 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215075334. p. 255–262. Full text in Research Archive
• Falkanger, Thor (2025). Utnyttelse av sand- og grusforekomster i sjøgrunnen. In Alvik, Ivar; Arnesen, Finn & Michalsen, Dag (Ed.), Om nasjonens forfatning - festskrift til Ola Mestad på 70-årsdagen 8. desember 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215075334. p. 111–119. Full text in Research Archive
• Egeland, Ane Sydnes (2025). Domstoler og demokrati i et endret klima. Om domstolskontroll med statens klimamål etter EMDs dom i Verein KlimaSeniorinnen mfl. mot Sveits. In Alvik, Ivar; Arnesen, Finn & Michalsen, Dag (Ed.), Om nasjonens forfatning - festskrift til Ola Mestad på 70-årsdagen 8. desember 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215075334. p. 87–110. Full text in Research Archive
• Bull, Kirsti Strøm & Bull, Hans Jacob (2025). Takk for skyssen! Rettslige aspekter ved skyssvesenet i Norge. In Alvik, Ivar; Arnesen, Finn & Michalsen, Dag (Ed.), Om nasjonens forfatning - festskrift til Ola Mestad på 70-årsdagen 8. desember 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215075334. p. 41–62. Full text in Research Archive

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• Stavang, Endre; Fauchald, Ole Kristian; Hauge, Katrine Broch & Stenseth, Geir (2026). Naturressursrett - en antologi. Cappelen Damm Akademisk. ISBN 9788202874513. 496 p. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Naturressursretten er et fagfelt som spenner over flere juridiske disipliner, især tingsrett, miljørett og energirett. Daglig renner nyhetene nærmest over av aktuelle rettsspørsmål med slik tematikk i et naturressursbasert rettssystem som vårt eget. Formålet med boken er å synliggjøre noen utvalgte, aktuelle emner i naturressursretten. Samlet viser bokens 14 bidrag hvordan fagfeltet samtidig er både praktisk og prinsipielt viktig, mens innledningene gir en introduksjon til rettsområdet og bokens innhold.

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• Banet, Catherine (2026). Energy Independence through Electrification: Time to Deliver. doi: https:/cerre.eu/news/energy-independence-through-electrification-time-to-deliver/. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Europe does not know where its energy dependencies lie. Traditionally, energy dependency has been understood as a country’s reliance on imported fuels such as oil, natural gas, coal, and uranium. But today, dependency can also arise through supply chains for energy technologies, foreign ownership of strategic assets, and foreign investment in critical infrastructure. Existing European indicators do not fully capture this range of risks. This means developers and policymakers cannot fully identify vulnerabilities and design effective responses.

• Holte, Even Ambros; Kaarstad, Magnhild; Madsen, Andreas Nygard; Tailoussane, Ayoub; Kwei-Narh, Prosper A. & Braseth, Alf Ove (2026). Periodically uncrewed bridge – a viable concept for future deep sea operations? Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The maritime industry, particularly deep-sea operations, is facing increasing challenges related to crew shortages, fatigue, and compliance with rest and work-hour regulations. One proposed solution is the concept of a periodically unmanned bridge (B0), in which the bridge may remain unattended under certain operational conditions (e.g. open sea, clear weather, no technical defects). However, safe implementation of B0 requires addressing human, technological and regulatory challenges. This exploratory study presents one of the first empirical evaluations of B0 operations using a full-mission bridge simulator. Eight experienced navigators were interviewed after completing four realistic operational scenarios under two conditions: continuous bridge manning and B0. Post-scenario interviews were triangulated with data on navigator performance, workload ratings, and Situational Awareness (SA) measures. Participants highlighted opportunities and concerns related to B0, particularly regarding trust in automation, failure detection and the need for rapid re-engagement following alarms. They also noted that the concept may require new forms of training, information presentation, and decision-support systems. Results for performance, workload, and situational awareness were broadly similar between the two bridge types. Although tentative due to the limited sample size, the findings indicated a potential advantage for anticipatory situational awareness (projection) in the B0 condition. Overall, the findings suggest that B0 may be feasible within constrained operational envelopes, if alarm strategies, training, and human-automation interaction are carefully designed. The study contributes early empirical evidence to inform the development of decision-support requirements and regulatory adaptations in ongoing discussions regarding the potential implementation of periodically unmanned bridges.

• Borit, Melania; Edmonds, Bruce; Eriksen, Guri Kristin Hjallen; Kanaththege, Lakshika Hasini Kahanda; Jonas, Krisztina & Mashiur, Zoheb [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2026). Anticipating autonomous fishing futures: A socio-technical perspective on Norwegian small-scale fisheries. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Throughout history, technological innovation has been a key driver of transformation in fisheries, and future developments are expected to be increasingly shaped by digital technologies such as robotics, Artificial Intelligence, sensor systems, and big data analytics. Guided by the overarching research question of “what are the long-term technological, legal, economic, societal, and environmental futures of the Norwegian fishing sector”, we performed several studies from a highly interdisciplinary perspective, integrating theories, data, and methods from environmental science, social sciences, engineering, and futures studies. Using the case of the Norwegian small-scale jigging fleet and focusing on the scenario of the implementation of autonomous technologies in fishing operations, in the period 2022-2026 we collected data through systematic literature reviews, participatory observation, and netnography, as well as interviews and future workshops with fishers, fishing technology developers, digital technology developers, and legal professionals. We analysed these data using thematic analysis, design futures, and conceptual modelling, as well as technology assessment methods. By understanding technological innovation as part of co-evolving socio-technical systems, the technological transformation of the sector was analysed across multiple dimensions, including fishing and navigation technologies, labour, governance, management, and markets. Special attention was given to investigating how intelligent and data-driven systems can support more sustainable and efficient fisheries management and operations when new technologies are co-designed by their users and developers. Our results provide examples of what autonomous fishing may look like and how its impact can be assessed, which legal and governance tensions may emerge from the transition to such technologies, and what opportunities and challenges stakeholders identified. The purpose of this forward-looking perspective on the socio-technical evolution of fishing technology is to guide research and innovation in the sector, inform policy development, and foster informed discussions among fishery stakeholders.

• Eriksen, Guri Kristin Hjallen (2026). Fiske og klima: Redskapsregulering i norske yrkesfiskerier i et framtidsrettet klimaperspektiv. Full text in Research Archive
• Borit, Melania; Mashiur, Zoheb; Molander, Holly; Eriksen, Guri Kristin Hjallen; Edmonds, Bruce & Kanaththege, Lakshika Hasini Kahanda [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2026). Anticipatory Governance of Autonomous Natural Resource Extraction. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  A Proof of Concept stream convened by the CRAFT Lab (Knowledge Integration and Blue Futures), UiT TheArctic University of Norway. The provocation Imagine an extractive industry transformed by technologies pulled straight from the most advanced sectors – robotics, artificial intelligence, big data, autonomous systems. Fishing vessels that are put to sea with no one aboard. Mineral harvesters crawling the deep seabed. Machines reaching into space. The technology is arriving faster than the law, the ethics, and the social agreements that should shape it. And technology is never neutral: every system carries human values, assumptions, and power relations inside it. Our research maps fisheries across phases we call “Fisheries 0.0 to 5.0,” tracing the journey from pre-industrial fishing to a near to medium-term future (Fisheries 4.0 in the 2030s, 5.0 in the 2050s) of AI-enabled systems, autonomous vessels, digital twins, and distributed, predictive governance. This stream will consider the human-technology relationships around these kinds of autonomous natural resource extraction, from minerals on the bottom of the sea to exploitation beyond Earth: not just what these systems can do, but what they should do, for whom, and under what values. What we’ll do together Rather than presenting finished research, we set this as a starting point and build with you across the stream. We work through a mix of speculative and embodied techniques – artefacts from the future, future personas, co-design of principles, Embodied Transformation Theatre, and science-informed creative writing. The aim is to bring scholars, technology designers, legislators, and others into the same room to imagine future worlds – from future fisher profiles to broader socio-technical dynamics, future laws, and the future of current law – and to draw out the governance principles those worlds would demand. What the stream produces is up to the group: it might be a set of co-designed principles or a draft charter for anticipatory governance, a collection of future artefacts and personas, speculative legal texts, a hybrid of all of these, or totally something else – to be shared in a closing presentation and reflection. Who we’re looking for We welcome people from law, design, anthropology, marine and environmental science, computer science, futures studies, media, and the art; and just as warmly, people from outside the university: fishers and other practitioners from the primary sector (forestry, mining etc), technologists, policymakers, artists, and activists. No prior expertise in fisheries (or other primary sector) is needed; curiosity and a willingness to imagine and build collaboratively are what matter. How to apply Send a short expression of interest (around 200–300 words) telling us who you are, what you’d bring, and what draws you to the stream. You’re welcome to include a CV, a portfolio, prior work, or whatever best conveys your perspective. This is not a paper proposal. Apply directly to the convenors. Because the work builds across sessions, participants are encouraged to attend all of the stream’s sessions, but it is not a strict requirement for this stream. Sessions will be open to conference attendees who choose to attend on the day. • Melania Borit — Professor of Knowledge Integration (Norwegian College of Fisheries Science, UiT)

• Borit, Melania; Molander, Holly; Mashiur, Zoheb; Eriksen, Guri Kristin Hjallen; Kanaththege, Lakshika Hasini Kahanda & Mittner, Lilli [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2026). Living with the Ocean (Exhibition and Guided Walk). Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  “Living with the Ocean” is a traveling exhibition exploring coastal cultures’ past, present, and future while addressing nature, people, and global challenges. Launched in Europe in 2024, it visited three continents, including the American Arctic. The exhibition fosters collaboration between arts and sciences, encouraging communities to rethink their relationship with water. It is an open-access collection that supports diverse interactive activities. Featuring weather-resistant canvases displayed indoors or outdoors, it prioritizes reuse and digital open-access availability to reduce environmental impact. It is also the backdrop for intergenerational workshops, citizen art, and visitor research. We will display several exhibits (printed canvases) that are part of the “Living with the Ocean” and, during the associated session, take conference participants to guided walks that elicit legal thinking. The guided tours can take anything from 15 min to 2 hours, depending on the audience. After the guided walks, participants can propose themselves photographs that can be included in the exhibition. A jury composed by the exhibition curators and/or the conference organisers will select 1-2 of these proposals. The selected images will be sent to the production team (graphic design, to harmonize the submission with the overall design of the exhibition) and afterwards integrated in the exhibition, both in the open on-line collection and in further hard print-outs.

• Banet, Catherine & Undheim, Eva Aalberg (2026). Den europeiske datadragskampen. [Journal]. Dag og Tid. doi: https:/www.dagogtid.no/samfunn/den-europeiske-datadragkampen/693419. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Fleire europeiske land strammar til krava til datasenterindustrien. Noreg kan lære av erfaringane deira, seier energi- og ressursrettsekspert Catherine Banet.

• Banet, Catherine (2026). Energy system Reliability, Resilience and Security. Full text in Research Archive
• Iversen, Astrid; Myklebust, Trude & Andenæs, Mads (2026). Workshop: Fremtidens penger, oppgjør og betalingssystemer". Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Workshopen samlet akademikere og praktikere for å belyse utvalgte tekniske, juridiske og politiske problemstillinger knyttet til fremvekst av nye former for penger, digitale betaling- og oppgjørssystemer. Deltagere blant annet fra Norges Bank, Finanstilsynet, Bankenes Sikringsfond, UiO, OsloMet, Universitetet i Innlandet. Key note speaker var prof.Douglas Arner fra University of Hong Kong.

• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Monetær suverenitet, geopolitikk og teknologiens moglegheiter. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Workshop: "Fremtidens penger, oppgjør og betalingssystemer" samlet akademikere og praktikere for å belyse utvalgte tekniske, juridiske og politiske problemstillinger knyttet til fremvekst av nye former for penger, digitale betaling- og oppgjørssystemer. Deltagere blant annet fra Norges Bank, Finanstilsynet, Bankenes Sikringsfond, UiO, OsloMet, Universitetet i Innlandet. Key note speaker var prof.Douglas Arner fra University of Hong Kong.

• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Financial Warfare. Freezing and seizing of central bank assets. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Presentation at the event «Continuity or transformation? international economic law in turbulent times, which formed part of theconference, The International Law Commission at 80: Continuity, Coherence, and Transformation in International Law at UFMG, Department of Law, in Brazil.

• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Is the ILC afraid of the INternational economic law? Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Presentation at the conference: The International Law Commission at 80: Continuity, Coherence, and Transformation in International Law, at UFMG Faculty of Law, Belo Horizonte, Brazil

• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Workshop on teaching and research on macro finance and monetary law. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Organizing workshop aims at exploring ongoing research and teaching within Macro Finance and Monetary Law in an informal environment. Presenting paper on examining legal standing of central banks before international investment tribunals in cases concerning sanctions against central banks´ foreign exchange reserves.

• Iversen, Astrid & Hjertaker, Ingrid (2026). Central Banks as GOATS (Guarantors of All Things). Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Paper presentation at a conference on Law, Political Economy and the Legal Geography of Money, Sciences Po, Paris.

• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Central Banks as investors. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Presenting paper examining legal standing of central banks before international investment tribunals in cases concerning sanctions against central banks´ foreign exchange reserves at Economic Statecraft Conference, European University Institute, Florence.

• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Financial sanctions and central bank assets. Full text in Research Archive
• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Central Banks between monetary policy and financial stability. The limits of central bank independence. Full text in Research Archive
• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Central Banks. function and legal framework. Full text in Research Archive
• Iversen, Astrid (2026). Central Banks between monetary policy and financial stability, and the limits of central bank independence. Full text in Research Archive
• Fjordbo, Gullik & Sætervadet, Torkell (2026). Førdefjorden: Lojalitetsplikten i EØS er vanskelig å forene med norske regler om ugyldighet – Lojalitetsplikten knesatt i EØS-avtalen artikkel 3 er vanskelig å forene med at norske regler om rettskraft- og ugyldighetsvirkninger utnyttes som en midlertidig «gråsone», hvor virksomhet i strid med vanndirektivet fortsetter. doi: https:/rett24.no/articles/fordefjorden-lojalitetsplikten-i-eos-er-vanskelig-a-forene-med-norske-regler-om-ugyldighet. Full text in Research Archive
• Høisveen, Per Håkon (2026). «Konsesjonsbehandling av kjernekraftverk etter Kjernekraftutvalgets utredning. Rett 24. Full text in Research Archive
• Høisveen, Per Håkon (2026). Den energirettslige regulering av kjernekraftverk etter Kjernekraftutvalgets utredning. Full text in Research Archive
• Nuridzhanian, Gaiane; Chernykh, Yuliya & Oprysk, Liliia (2026). UA-KLAR Podcast | Podcast on Spotify. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  UA-KLAR podcast discusses burning legal issues arising in connection with Ukraine’s reconstruction during and after the war. Through conversations with leading legal experts on Ukraine, UA-KLAR podcast explores three major topics: investing in Ukraine, Ukraine’s relations with the EU and EEA, and justice and accountability for atrocity crimes committed during the war. The podcast is part of the UA-KLAR project funded by the Norwegian Nansen Programme. https://en.uit.no/project/uaklar_en Co-hosts: Gaiane Nuridzhanian (UiT), Liliia Oprysk (UiB), Yuliya Chernykh (INN)

• Ellingsen, Hilde Kristin; Bjørnebye, Henrik; rabben, jon; Ånestad, Ingvild & Støle, Frode (2026). Kommentar til lov om produksjon, omforming, overføring, omsetning, fordeling og bruk av energi m.m. (energiloven), Norsk Lovkommentar (tidl. Karnov). Full text in Research Archive
• Ånestad, Ingvild (2026). Skagerrak-kablene: konkurranserett, fri bevegelighet eller utenfor EØS-avtalen? Full text in Research Archive
• Ånestad, Ingvild (2026). Renewal of concessions for interconnectors: a subject for free movement rules? Full text in Research Archive
• (IWRA), International Water Resources Association; Sindico, Francesco; Eckstein, Gabriel; Eidesgaard, Óluva; Ólavsdóttir, Jana & Solli, Gunnhild Storbekkr�nning [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2026). 1st IWRA Islands Water Congress Policy Report. doi: https:/www.iwra.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/I-IWRA-Islands-Water-Congress-Policy-Report.pdf. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Despite abundant rainfall, the Faroe Islands face growing freshwater governance challenges due to increasing demand, limited data, and fragmented regulation. This policy report recommends establishing a national Water Forum to improve coordination, data sharing, and public awareness, and developing an integrated freshwater law to clarify responsibilities and support sustainable water management. The recommendations aim to strengthen long-term freshwater governance in the Faroe Islands and offer lessons for other island jurisdictions.

• Ottersen, Ole Petter; Banet, Catherine & Lygre, Eirik Tangeraas (2026). Håp for kommende generasjoner? doi: https:/filosofifestivalen.no/program2026/. Full text in Research Archive
• Schøning, Lena; Solli, Gunnhild Storbekkr�nning; Hauge, Katrine Broch; Sandberg, Lene; Morel, Mathilde & Marel, Eva R van der [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2026). På vidda gjennom omstillingens konfliktlandskap. doi: https:/www.energiogklima.no/meninger-og-analyse/debatt/pa-vidda-gjennom-omstillingens-konfliktlandskap?fbclid=IwY2xjawR5p5NleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETBRcnIzNEt4VTY1UjV6YTBUc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHrI9VU0Sc0THj-4n2zJPjN05p0DfbKOn2KXegeiSh15XqapKkQcT7H4c_ydl_aem_FsOiHhm3HNob_nG_KcM8sA. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Kronikken ble til i kjølvannet av det såkalte Vidde-seminaret, hvor ti miljørettsforskere på ski over Finnmarksvidda møtte institusjoner i Alta og Karasjok og diskuterete miljørett med hverandre. Kronikken diskuterer den grønne omstillingen, som ofte fremstår som både nødvendig og uunngåelig, utgjør en trussel mot natur og kultur.

• Banet, Catherine (2026). Ensuring Good Resource Management When Developing Offshore CO₂ Storage Activities: An Appraisal of Available Regulatory Tools. doi: https:/ccsatsea2026.com/index.html. Full text in Research Archive
• Sæteren, Annichen Kongsvik (2026). Slår alarm om behandling av oppdrettslaks. [Journal]. Klassekampen. doi: https:/klassekampen.no/artikkel/2026-05-05/slar-alarm-om-behandling-av-oppdrettslaks. Full text in Research Archive
• Sæteren, Annichen Kongsvik (2026). Oppdrettsfiskens rettslige vern. Vernets innhold, casene rensefisk og avlusning, løsninger og perspektiver. Full text in Research Archive
• Ulvin, Philippe Bédos & Banet, Catherine (2026). Høyesterett skal behandle sokkelsak i oktober – EØS-etterslepet kan eksplodere. [Internet]. Energi og Klima. doi: https:/www.energiogklima.no/nyhet/brussel/hoyesterett-skal-behandle-sokkelsak-i-oktober-eos-etterslepet-kan-eksplodere. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Jusprofessor Catherine Banet tror Høyesteretts behandling av Saga Subsea-saken kan få massive konsekvenser for EØS-avtalen.

• Banet, Catherine (2026). Kampen om nettkapasitet: rettslig ramme for tilgang til strømnettet i Norge. Full text in Research Archive
• Banet, Catherine (2026). Renewables & Electricity Market Design: Environmental, Security, and Affordability Concerns. Full text in Research Archive
• Banet, Catherine (2026). L’industrie pétrolière offshore confrontée aux exigences de lutte contre les changements climatiques en Europe. Full text in Research Archive
• Banet, Catherine (2026). Omkampen om Utsira Nord: Professor tviler på behovet for ny utredning. [Internet]. Europower. doi: https:/www.europower.no/havvind/omkampen-om-utsira-nord-professor-tviler-pa-behovet-for-ny-utredning/2-1-1969085. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Jusprofessor Catherine Banet ved UiO stiller spørsmål ved om utredningen Høyre foreslår for statsstøtten til Utsira Nord er nødvendig.

• Høisveen, Per Håkon (2026). Rettslig regulering og organisering av kjernekraften. Full text in Research Archive
• Simonsen, Endre & Banet, Catherine (2026). Tror ny EU-pakke vil bli betent for regjeringen. [Internet]. Montel. doi: https:/montelnews.com/nordic. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  EU-kommisjonens foreslåtte nettpakke har allerede fått kritikk i Norge. Jusprofessor Catherine Banet tror pakken kan bli en betent sak i regjeringen som kan øke etterslepet på energifeltet.

• Banet, Catherine (2026). Juridisk grunnlag for reservering av nettkapasitet til Snøhvit Future-anlegget ved Melkøya. doi: https:/www.jus.uio.no/forskning/prosjekter/eurnor/arrangementer/2026/eurnor-frokost-24.02.26.html. Full text in Research Archive
• Banet, Catherine (2026). Ulovlig snuoperasjon på Melkøya? [TV]. NRK. doi: https:/tv.nrk.no/serie/politisk-kvarter-tv/sesong/202602/episode/NNFA07020426. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Snuoperasjon om Melkøya kan være ulovlig, mener jusprofessor - Stortinget kan snu i morgen.

• Banet, Catherine & Dalfest, Kjersti (2026). Jusprofessor: Kan ikke frata Equinor nettkapasitet til Melkøya. [Internet]. Montel. doi: https:/montelnews.com/nordic/news/1257867b-8a1c-407d-9ae1-70795a72cb7d/jusprofessor-kan-ikke-frata-equinor-melkoya-kapasitet. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Stortinget har ikke hjemmel til å frata Equinor nettkapasitet til elektrifisering av Melkøya, ifølge jusprofessor Catherine Banet ved universitetet i Oslo.

• Banet, Catherine (2026). 15 et 70%: nature contraignante et implications juridiques des objectifs chiffrés européens de gestion des interconnexions électriques transfrontalières. Full text in Research Archive
• Banet, Catherine (2026). EUs nettpakke (European Grids Package): gjennomgang og betydning for Norge. Full text in Research Archive
• Iversen, Astrid (2025). Rett til kaffen: Finansielle sanksjoner, særlig mot andre lands sentralbanker. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Foredrag i serien "Rett til kaffen", hvor ansatte på juridisk fakultet presenterer egen forsking for studentene, arrangert av Universitetsbiblioteket ved Juridisk Fakultet, Universitetet i Oslo.

• Iversen, Astrid (2025). Sentralbankar si utvida rolle i krisetider: Finanskriser, klimakriser og krig. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Oppsummering av forskningsprosjekt om sentralbankers utvida rolle i krisetider (NFR 315503) for Nordisk Institutt for Sjørett.

• Hauge, Katrine Broch & Solli, Gunnhild Storbekkr�nning (2025). Incorporation of Geothermal Energy in Spatial Planning- Planning for the Future. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The presentation explores the role of geothermal energy in the sustainable energy transition and the legal challenges associated with its development. Particular attention is given to how geothermal projects interact with land-use planning, subsurface property rights, and competing uses of underground resources. Drawing on a comparative analysis of selected European countries, the presentation discusses how legal and planning frameworks can support the sustainable and coordinated use of geothermal resources while balancing long-term societal interests.

• Iversen, Astrid & Myklebust, Trude (2025). Financial Derivatives Litigation in Norway. Full text in Research Archive
• Iversen, Astrid (2025). Panel on Central Banks in conference on ´Technocrats, Bureaucrats, and Democrats – and Autocrats?’. Full text in Research Archive
• Bull, Kirsti Strøm & Bull, Hans Jacob (2025). To skyssdagbøker fra Steien i Alvdal - en inngang til skysshistorien. Årbok for Nord-Østerdalen. ISSN 0333-3140. 2025, p. 115–123. Full text in Research Archive
• Bruzelius, Karin M. (2025). Forsikringsrett. Lov og Rett. ISSN 0024-6980. 64(7), p. 448–448. doi: 10.18261/lor.64.7.1. Full text in Research Archive
• Hamre, Inger Marta (2025). Bibliografi Hans Petter Graver. In Arnesen, Finn; Lohne, Kjersti; Michalsen, Dag & Sand, Inger Johanne (Ed.), Rettsvitenskap og samfunnsengasjement: Festskrift til Hans Petter Graver. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215075297. p. 522–541. Full text in Research Archive
• Hamre, Inger Marta (2025). Bibliografi over Ola Mestad. In Alvik, Ivar; Arnesen, Finn & Michalsen, Dag (Ed.), Om nasjonens forfatning - festskrift til Ola Mestad på 70-årsdagen 8. desember 2025. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215075334. p. 508–518. Full text in Research Archive
• Dyrland, - Sondre; Reiersrud, - Peder Andreas & Henningsen, - Christoffer Skødt (2026). - Sanctions Risk in Shipbuilding Contracts. An analysis of Clause 24 on Export Controls and Sanctions in SHIP25. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Modern sanctions regimes are characterised by frequent amendments, several legislators and are drafted in broad terms. They have consequently become a central concern for commercial actors in the global shipbuilding industry which operate within highly internationalised contractual structures. Prior background law and contractual mechanisms have been viewed as inadequate at addressing these sanctions risks. In response, the revised Norwegian Standard Form Shipbuilding Contract (SHIP25) introduces Clause 24, Export Controls and Sanctions. The clause governs both export control and sanctions risks and seeks to allocate risks between the parties while providing a structured framework for managing their impact on contractual performance. This thesis analyses Clause 24 as a mechanism for allocating sanctions risks in shipbuilding contracts and evaluates its ‘effectiveness’ in light of contemporary sanctions regimes. Through doctrinal legal analysis, it proceeds by analysing the risk allocation in its sanctions warranties, its remedial framework and the legal effects and consequences of its construction in the context of sanctions. The analysis finds that Clause 24 constitutes a more structured and predictable contractual response to sanctions risk, moving beyond traditional clauses and legal doctrines previously relied upon. It finds that it allocates sanctions risk by transforming regulatory sanctions risk into contractual obligations and placing them with the party most capable of managing it. Furthermore, it shows that its remedial framework reflects the gravity of sanctions consequences and the functionality of sanctions regimes. However, within the ‘effectiveness’ working definition of the thesis, Clause 24 can only be described as ‘partially effective.’ While it improves upon the previous way of addressing sanctions risks, its ‘effectiveness’ is constrained by the mandatory nature of sanctions law rather than deficiencies in contractual drafting. Its value therefore lies in structuring risk allocation within the limits of public law rather than eliminating sanctions risk. It does what it can, but the ‘ineffectiveness’ is a reflection of the inherent limit set by the nature of sanctions law.

• Ringbom, Henrik & Haniffa, Faizal (2026). Governing Arctic Black Carbon Through Existing Law: Jurisdiction, Standards, and the Proxies-to-Proof Framework for Port-State Enforcement. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract: The retreat of Arctic sea ice is opening commercial corridors at the same time that vessel-source black carbon (BC) emissions are accelerating Arctic warming through the albedo feedback. Despite a mature scientific consensus on BC's significance and the existence of guidance instruments at the International Maritime Organization, no binding, comprehensively Arctic-calibrated BC standard yet applies to international shipping. The legal materials capable of addressing the gap exist, but they exist in pieces. This thesis asks whether the existing architecture of international and regional law can be configured into a coherent and operationally verifiable pathway for the governance of Arctic vessel-source BC emissions. Adopting a doctrinal method, it answers that question affirmatively by reading three legal regimes as a single system rather than as isolated specialisms. UNCLOS Article 234 is reconstructed as a lex specialis of disciplined ambition, supplying the jurisdictional foundation and a structured proportionality discipline. MARPOL Annex VI is examined as the compliance grammar through which abstract legal standards become enforceable commercial obligations, with particular attention to its sulphur regime, fuel-oil documentation infrastructure, and the BC-specific guidance in Resolution MEPC.394(82). Port-State jurisdiction, illustrated through EU instruments (i.e., FuelEU Maritime, the EU ETS shipping amendments, and the PSC Directive), is then designed into a “proxies-to-proof” enforcement architecture that converts these inputs into routine compliance behaviour without overstepping the boundaries of lawful port-State authority. The contribution is integrative rather than generative: the thesis demonstrates that materials long studied in isolation belong together, and that, properly assembled, they form a framework more complete, more defensible and more practically workable than fragmented scholarship has so far suggested.

• Henrik, Ringbom, & Anthony, Giaramita, (2026). The Plea of Necessity and the Interdiction of Vessels Suspected of Submarine Pipeline and Cable Sabotage. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive
• Catherine, Banet, & Jarner, Olsen, Ida (2025). Title: Carbon at Sea: The EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime Decarbonisation of Shipping under International Maritime Law and Contractual Practice. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The European Union has taken a leading role in decarbonizing maritime transport by expanding the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) to include shipping and adopting the FuelEU Maritime Regulation. These measures represent a significant shift in maritime climate governance, implementing market-based and operational requirements that surpass those set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This thesis explores the legal, contractual, and financial implications of this regulatory divergence, with particular focus on how EU climate regulation changes compliance obligations within the shipping industry. The thesis first examines the legal framework and scope of the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime, outlining their objectives, enforcement mechanisms, and phased rollout. It then places these tools within the broader context of international maritime law, assessing their compatibility with core principles such as flag state jurisdiction, freedom of navigation, and regulatory consistency. Special attention is given to the tension between the EU’s unilateral regulatory approach and the traditionally global nature of maritime governance under the IMO framework. Building on this legal analysis, the thesis explores how EU climate obligations are integrated into private law through contractual mechanisms, including charterparty clauses, emission cost allocation, and compliance risk management. The study shows that compliance is no longer confined to public enforcement but is increasingly embedded in commercial relationships, necessitating contractual changes and proactive emissions planning. The financial implications of EU ETS allowance costs and FuelEU penalties are analyzed as key factors influencing behavioral change, affecting operational decisions, fuel choices, and risk sharing between shipowners and charterers. Finally, the thesis evaluates the broader effects of the EU’s approach on the future of maritime regulation. While the EU framework boosts regulatory certainty within its jurisdiction and accelerates decarbonization efforts, it also risks creating regulatory fragmentation and legal complexity at the international level. The thesis concludes that effective and sustainable maritime decarbonization will rely on closer alignment between regional initiatives and global regulation, along with ongoing development of contractual and compliance practices within the shipping industry.

• Cardús, Pau Canaldas (2025). Reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions in the shipping industry: analysis of the EU regulation from an implementation perspective. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive
• Boer, Klaas Piter Albert de (2025). Damage subdivision of Loss of Hire claims in the Nordic Plan under German and Dutch market practices. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive
• Claessen, Sveinbjörn (2025). Hull insurance - The Nordic Plan vs. The Icelandic Conditions. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  This thesis examines hull insurance under two distinct systems: the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan of 2013 (NP) and the Icelandic Hull Insurance Conditions. The focus is primarily on the core elements of hull insurance, namely provisions regarding total loss, repairs and liability of the assured due to collision and striking. In addition, the thesis introduces some general rules applicable under both sets. The objective is to study how the hull insurance is regulated under the NP, which is applied under all the Nordic countries except for Iceland, and to compare this framework with the Icelandic approach. Chapter One provides an introduction. Chapter Two outlines the marine insurance market in Iceland. Chapter Three presents an overview of common rules, both under the NP and the Icelandic conditions. Subsequent chapters conduct a detailed comparison of rules governing total loss, repairs and the assured’s liability arising from collision or striking is examined comprehensively. The concluding chapter summarizes the key findings, highlighting that while both frameworks are functional, the Icelandic conditions could benefit from further development. In particular, clearer procedural rules regarding total loss and repairs, as well as improved definitions in liability clauses, could enhance legal certainty. By adopting the best practice from the NP – refined over more than 150 years – may help Icelandic hull insurance better serve both insurers and assureds in managing risks and resolving claims.

• Losnedahl, Trygve Gudmund Harlem (2025). Om formål og virkemidler i regulering av offentlige anskaffelser. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Avhandlingen undersøker norske og EU-rettslige regler for statlige innkjøp fra 1821 og begrunnelsene politikerne har gitt for å vedta reglene. Avhandlingen undersøker altså hvorfor og hvordan man regulerer offentlige anskaffelser. Et viktig funn og poeng er at det vesentligste virkemiddelet som har vært foreskrevet, er å måtte arrangere konkurranser. Dette er det gode grunner til, for de gir mulighet for politisk styring, kontroll og økonomisk effektivitet. Men når konkurransene ikke virker, det vil si når man ikke får deltakernes innsats og kamp mot hverandre, er de unødig rigide, unødig kostbare og åpner for misbruk. Derfor har det alltid vært en lang rekke unntak fra plikten til å arrangere disse formelle konkurransene. Avhandlingen gir grunnlag for å spørre om unntakene burde vært enda flere. Hvorfor påbyr vi offentlige innkjøpere å arrangere konkurranser? Når du og jeg kjøper badeshorts, bil eller bolig, er det ingen lover og regler som bestemmer hvordan vi skal gå frem for å gjøre dette. Du står fritt til å ringe direkte til Sinnasnekkern eller håpe han inngir bud i en anbudskonkurranse. Det samme gjelder om det er Varner-gruppen eller Aker-konsernet som skal kjøpe. Det er en grunnleggende antagelse i samfunnet vårt at de som kjøper kjenner sine behov best og er best i stand til å gjøre kjøp som er nokså kostnadseffektive. Likevel har vi hatt regler for offentlige innkjøp siden 1822 som bestemmer at det offentlige normalt skal arrangere formelle konkurranser når de skal kjøpe. Vet ikke offentlige innkjøpere best hva de bør kjøpe og hvordan de bør kjøpe? Det korte svaret er at de som har vedtatt offentlige anskaffelsesregelverk ikke har begrunnet dette i at det skal være kostnadseffektivt. Det stemmer ikke, som departementet har skrevet en gang, at «[r]egelverkets konkrete og detaljerte prosedyreregler er i første rekke ment å stimulere til best mulig ressursutnyttelse i offentlig sektor». Hvis innkjøperens hovedmål er å få behovet dekket, vil det mest kostnadseffektive for innkjøperen være å kjøpe det godet som dekker behovet til beste forhold mellom kvalitet og pris, samtidig som man bruker så lite som mulig på selve kjøpsprosessen. Da er det ikke kostnadseffektivt å måtte betale ekstra for å ivareta miljøhensyn, distriktspolitikk eller EUs næringsliv i konkurranse med Kina, Japan og USA. Selv om det ikke er kostnadseffektivt har så godt som alle reguleringer av offentlige anskaffelser forfulgt slike forskjellige politiske formål. Ved å pålegge innkjøperne å arrangere regelstyrte konkurranser kan sentralmakten tvinge innkjøperne til å ta disse hensynene, og få hjelp av leverandørene til å sikre etterlevelse. Det er heller ikke kostnadseffektivt å arrangere en formell konkurranse når man på forhånd «vet» hvem som vinner eller når verdien på kontrakten ikke står i forhold til kostnadene ved å arrangere konkurransen. Likevel har politikere villet bruke arrangerte konkurranser i utstrakt grad, blant annet fordi de er gjennomsiktige og regelstyrte, og dermed også kan sikre tillit til den offentlige pengebruken. Antakelsene må snus på hodet Vi må snu om på våre antakelser om hvorfor offentlige anskaffelser reguleres. Mens aktiviteten offentlige innkjøp klart har som sin fremste målsetting å få gode avtaler, har ikke reguleringen av offentlige innkjøp hatt dette som sitt fremste mål. Tvert imot. Regelverket har vært gitt for å sikre tilliten til staten og ivareta samfunnets til enhver tid politiske målsettinger, uten å gå på bekostning av kostnadseffektive innkjøp i for stor grad. Arrangerte konkurranser Det har vært oversett i forskningslitteratur, både innen juss og økonomi, at ulike typer arrangerte konkurranser har felles kjennetegn. De er tidsbegrensede, regelstyrte arrangementer som tildeler begrensede goder blant deltakerne basert på arrangementets regler. Dermed har Tour de France, Kirkevalget og Squid Game har mer til felles med offentlige anskaffelser enn man kanskje skulle tro. De er alle eksempler på arrangerte konkurranser. Det har også vært oversett at arrangerte konkurranser er fantastiske politiske styringsverktøy. De kan gi i både pose og sekk. Når de virker, får man innsatsen og kreativiteten til flere konkurrenter som forsøker å gjøre det bedre enn de andre, enten det er budgivere i en havvindsauksjon eller leverandører som kjemper om en veikontrakt. I tillegg kan man fylle de arrangerte konkurransene med de reglene man vil, som å gi preferanse til norske leverandører, som man gjorde i olja, eller motsatt, forby fordeler til norske leverandører, som i EØS-regelverket. Endelig sikrer de arrangerte konkurransene rettsstatsidealer ved regelstyring, åpenhet og kontroll. Innsikten i de arrangerte konkurransene har betydning utenfor offentlige anskaffelser, som i kommersielle auksjonsprosesser, sport og spill, ansettelsesprosesser, vernepliktsordninger og reality TV.

• Rovinazzi, Emilia (2025). Collisions: The Historical development of Apportionment of Fault in England and Wales. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive
• Overby, Lars Rosenberg (2025). Effektivisering af skibspassagerrettigheder - mål og midler. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive
• Jacob, Bull, Hans & Rabia, Asad, (2025). Implementation of the Hong Kong Convention in Pakistan: Legal Adaptation, Institutional Challenges and Alignment with EU Maritime Standards. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Pakistan’s decision to join the Hong Kong Convention is an important step, but the systems needed to put it into practice are still not working together. At Gadani, the country’s main ship-breaking centre, yards are governed by a patchwork of environmental and labour laws that often overlap, contradict one another or are enforced only loosely. Because there is no single policy or legal framework to hold everything together, efforts to protect workers and the environment tend to fall through the cracks. A related problem is the lack of coordination among the institutions that are supposed to oversee the sector. Maritime, environmental and labour authorities all have a role to play, but they rarely operate in sync and most of them face resource constraints. The result is an industry that functions with little oversight and without clear direction. The core issue, therefore, is how Pakistan can turn the Convention’s obligations into practical, enforceable rules at home. This includes building stronger institutions, improving day-to-day regulation at Gadani and aligning national standards with the EU Ship Recycling Regulation so that the country remains competitive in global markets. The aim of this research is to work out how Pakistan can move from formally joining the Hong Kong Convention to putting its requirements into practice in a way that works on the ground. The study examines Pakistan’s legal and institutional gaps, compares its situation with Turkey, India and Bangladesh, and reviews the 2022 and 2024 NIMA reports to understand both the strengths and the shortcomings of their recommendations. A key objective is to show how Pakistan’s broader pattern of weak treaty implementation shapes the practical barriers to HKC compliance. Pakistan often adopts international obligations without building the domestic systems needed to enforce them, and this thesis is the first to link that wider pattern to the specific challenges at Gadani.

• Kristina, Siig,; Georg, Scheel, & Mercy, Reeves, Tonia (2025). Carrier liability between diligence and immunity: The evolution of due diligence and the role of nautical fault uner the Hague-Visby Rules. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive
• Claes, Martinson, & Ivar, Öhrling, (2025). Untouchable ships? Civil law remedies against sanctioned ships in a dark fleet context A work on the connections and contradictions between civil enforcement of maritime claims and sanctions. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Dark fleet vessels are a growing presence in the modern shipping world. The heavy sanctions imposed against Russia post 2014, and especially after 2022, drive this development. This thesis focuses on how sanctions against Russia have affected the legal landscape surrounding dark fleet vessels in Norway. A timely topic given that dark fleet vessels pass by the extensive Norwegian coastline daily. The thesis further covers the practical consequences when two legal systems collide: civil enforcement and sanctions guided by the research question: “Is the Norwegian civil enforcement system adequate to handle a sanctioned ship and are there possible issues?”. The thesis uses primary and secondary sources like statutory provisions, legal textbooks, published articles, official guidelines and legal commentaries to first dissect civil action and sanctions respectively to later discuss how they affect each other. This combined descriptive and analytical approach aims not only to clarify applicable law, but also discuss contradictions between these two legal landscapes sprung out of different times - one public and international, one private and procedural. Three separate points of friction between civil enforcement and sanctions are identified and discussed throughout the thesis. A common denominator being the uncertainties of whether the different phases of traditional civil enforcement suffice when dealing with dark fleet vessels. The thesis concludes there are considerable issues for any potential claimant seeking to satisfy claims against a dark fleet vessel.

• Alla, Pozdnakova, & Henrik, Arjavalta, Tommi (2025). Between Sovereignty and the High Seas: Jurisdictional Dilemmas in Safe-guarding Subsea Infrastructure in the Economic Exclusion Zone and on the Continental Shelf. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  This thesis examines the relationship between coastal- and flag-state jurisdiction within the Economic Exclusion Zone and on the continental shelf and how these relate to jurisdictional elements of subsea cables and pipelines (also called ‘submarine cables and pipelines’). At the center of the research are UNCLOS articles, academic works as well as court documents, among others. The first chapter introduces the research questions and methodology used in the writing of this thesis. The second chapter provides an overview of the legislative regime be-hind the main territorial divisions; the concept of jurisdiction and historic principles rooted within the formation of the Law of the Sea. The third chapter outlines the legal tensions and issues within the adjudicative, prescriptive and enforcement jurisdiction of coastal states, as well as the issues rooted within the regime of the flag-state, in addition to an analysis of why intent is difficult to determine in cable-damage situations in the Economic Exclusion Zone and on the continental shelf. The fourth chapter outlines a few solutions, which relate to new legislation on the part of the coastal state (mainly via the Estonian Draft Bill 656 SE), the ex-istence of substandard ships and a possible new international organization to focus on subsea cables and pipelines. These solutions may bolster more robust methods for coastal states to use to better respond to cable damages and create more efficient deterrents to supplement the gap that currently exists within the Law of the Sea that essentially enables escape from legal reper-cussions.

• Trine-Lise, Wilhelmsen, & Maximilian, Hesselmann, (2025). Insurance of Political Risk under the Nordic Plan - The Allocation of Political Risk between Marine and War-risk Insurance under the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract This thesis examines how losses arising from foreign State intervention are classified and allocated between marine and war-risk insurance under the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan of 2013 (Version 2023). The research problem concerns the boundary between Clause 2-8, which governs marine insurance on an all-risks basis, and Clause 2-9, which governs war-risk insurance on a named-perils basis, with particular emphasis on Clause 2-9(1)(b) and its requirement that a foreign State intervention be carried out for the furtherance of an overriding national or supranational political objective. Within the Nordic Plan, political risk is not regulated as an autonomous category of insurance but arises as a classification question determining whether losses caused by State measures fall within the marine or the war-risk branch. The thesis adopts a doctrinal legal method grounded in the text and structure of the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan, the official Commentary, and arbitral practice. The analysis is organised around a set of recurring classification issues, including the identity of the intervening actor, the nature and legal effect of the measure, political purpose, law-enforcement character, mixed motives, causation, continuity, and evidentiary standards. These issues are examined through a systematic analysis of leading arbitration awards, including Germa Lionel, Chemical Ruby, Sira, Team Tango, and the 2025 Heroic Idun award. The analysis shows that arbitral practice applies a consistent and disciplined approach to the classification of State interventions. The decisive criterion is political purpose: only interventions by foreign State power undertaken to further overriding political objectives typical of war or times of international crisis qualify as war perils under Clause 2-9(1)(b). Measures taken in the exercise of ordinary regulatory or law-enforcement authority, even where prolonged, irregular, or severe, remain within the marine-risk branch. The Heroic Idun award confirms and clarifies this approach by emphasising that political context, public interest, institutional dysfunction, or the severity of detention do not in themselves establish political purpose. The thesis concludes that the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan provides a coherent and predictable framework for allocating political risk between marine and war insurance. At the same time, the analysis identifies areas where modern State practices – particularly prolonged non-political detentions and preventive security measures – place pressure on the existing structure. While these situations do not undermine the doctrinal soundness of the Plan, they reveal points where targeted clarification in the Commentary could improve legal certainty without altering the fundamental balance between marine and war risks.

• George, Scheel & Elpiniki, Konstantinidou Sevasti (2025). 'The Legal Consequences of Non-Payment of Hire in Time Charterparties' Withdrawal, Termination, Suspension and other Remedies under English and Norwegian Law amidst Conflicting Case Law - The Legacy of The Astra and Spar Shipping. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Charterers, unlike Lannisters, do not always pay their debts. The timely payment of hire is fundamental to the commercial structure of time charterparties, yet the legal consequences of non-payment remain unsettled in light of conflicting English case law. This thesis examines the scope and operation of remedies available to shipowners, withdrawal, termination, suspension, and damages, under standard charterparty forms and both English and Norwegian law. Central to the analysis is the controversy generated by The Astra [2013], which classified punctual payment as a condition, and its subsequent rejection by the Court of Appeal in Spar Shipping [2016], which affirmed an innominate-term approach. This divergence highlights competing policy considerations, including commercial certainty, risk allocation, and fairness. The thesis also provides a comparative evaluation of the Norwegian Maritime Code, analyzing the shipowner’s rights to default interest, suspension, cancellation, damages, and assignment of freight claims, and assessing their practical alignment with the Spar Shipping reasoning. Through doctrinal analysis, comparative methodology, and engagement with leading academic commentary, the study ultimately evaluates whether the current legal framework, contractual and judicial, strikes the appropriate balance between the interests of owners and charterers, and considers the implications for drafting, dispute resolution, and commercial practice.

• Erik, Røsæg, & Nora, Høydahl, (2025). Navigating the Legal Seas of Shipowner Liability for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships: Norway and the UK in Comparison. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) challenge traditional shipowner liability frameworks, which rely on human fault, knowledge, and managerial oversight. Norwegian and UK law anchor liability and limitation in the actions or knowledge of identifiable human actors, leaving autonomous decision-making largely outside existing legal rules. This thesis examines the applicability of these frameworks to fully autonomous vessels. In Norway, liability under Maritime Code s. 151 and the Norwegian Tort Act is tied to the master, crew, or other human personnel. In the UK, doctrines such as ¨directing mind and will¨ and managerial privity similarly link liability to human knowledge or oversight. Autonomous operations expose a structural gap: without human fault or oversight, shipowners cannot be held liable under current statutes or case law. The study concludes that statutory, regulatory, or doctrinal reform is needed to reconceptualise fault, privity, and oversight for autonomous shipping.

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