“200 and 75: Traditions and History in Legal Science and Diplomacy” Honouring Legal traditions and diplomatic ties

“The International Hybrid Scientific Conference” took place on the 19th of November at 8 AM (CET) under the theme of “200 and 75: Traditions and History in Legal Science and Diplomacy.” This online conference brought together legal professionals, university professors, and diplomats from Mongolia and Hungary. The aim of the conference was to highlight the historical, cultural, and legal connections between the two countries, reflecting on issues in comparative law, diplomacy, and constitutional development.

The program consisted of speeches from the representatives of the Mongolian and Hungarian Academies of Sciences, National University of Mongolia, and Shihihutug University. The representatives reflected on legal history, international law, diplomacy, and constitutional reformation during the first session, further elaborating the discussion to academic life, religious history, and institutional development.

Professor Shajinbat Arijunaa, DSc., Secretary General of the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, opened the conference by emphasizing the significance of both anniversaries and scholarly ties between Hungary and Mongolia. His speech highlighted the importance of academic cooperation and acknowledged the historic friendship between the two nations. Damdin Tsogtbaatar, member of the State Great Khural of Mongolia (the Mongolian parliament), emphasized the 75 years of Mongolian-Hungarian relations which has been marked by mutual respect, shared research interests, and collaboration in legal and humanitarian fields.

Professor Sendwnjavyn Dulam from the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, delivered a speech under the Mongolian historical proverb “Man needs an older brother; deel (a traditional Mongolian coat) needs a collar.” Professor Dulam analysed one of Mongolia’s well-known traditional proverbs, which embodies centuries-old moral principles of authority, respect, and social order. The expression “Man needs an older brother, a deel needs a collar ” dates back to around 1055 and is connected to early Mongolian statehood through the figure of Bodonchar, an ancestor of Genghis Khan.

Professor Gábor Hamza from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences delivered a speech on the topic “The 200 Years of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and its Postmodern Issues” which reflected on the evolution of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences since its founding in 1825, discussing its role in shaping modern jurisprudence and comparative legal history. His key ideas focused on the German historical school of law, especially Savigny, and how they influenced modern legal methodology by integrating systematic and historical approaches, and the idea that law is inherently a historical and philosophical discipline. He also raised questions about the relevance and value of legal history in the contemporary world.

Dr. Borbála Obrusánszky, the ambassador of the Hungarian Embassy in Ulaanbaatar, highlighted the milestones of diplomatic relations since their establishment 75 years ago, mentioning cultural ties, academic exchanges, and long-term friendship. Professor Dr. Badarchiin Narmandakh and Dr. Namsrai Battulga from Shihihutug University in Mongolia offered a comparative study of constitutional reforms in both countries. Dr. Uyanga Myagmar from the National University of Mongolia’s School of Law, delivered a presentation on “Tracing Mongolia’s Legal Identity: Historical Roots and International Law Integration”, discussing Mongolia’s evolving legal identity through history.

The conference concluded on a warm and celebratory note with a group photo, symbolizing the solidarity, friendship, and shared commitment to ongoing collaboration. This moment captured the spirit of partnership that will continue to guide future academic endeavours.