Prof.ssa Giovanna Spatari, Rector of the University of Messina, and Prof. David Attard


On Thursday 4 April 2024, Prof. David Attard was awarded the Research Doctorate Honoris Causa in Legal Sciences by the University of Messina.

The Research Doctorate Honoris Causa in Legal Sciences was conferred on Professor Attard in recognition of his extraordinary contributions - also as a Judge - to the Law of the Sea.

At the ceremony, held in the Aula Magna of the University of Messina, Prof. Attard delivered the lectio doctoralis on the theme "Enhancing the effectiveness of international maritime law". Prof.ssa Francesca Pellegrino, full professor in Maritime Law, who delivered the laudatio, spoke about Professor Attard's accomplishments during his prestigious career.

Prof.ssa Giovanna Spatari (Rector, University of Messina), Prof. Alessio Lo Giudice (Director, Dipartimento di Giurisprudenza), Prof.ssa Concetta Parrinello (Coordinator of the Dottorato in Scienze giuridiche), and  Avv. Francesco Bonanno (Director General) participated at the honoris causa ceremony.