(https://www.linkedin.com/in/oleg-tortladze-0a6930129/) Oleg (Bacho) Tortladze is a Georgian graduate of the 2016/2017 LLM programme in Public International Law. Prior to pursuing this LLM program, he completed an LLB at Caucasus University in Georgia. After completing the Public International Law LLM, he started working for the United Nations Development Programme, before moving on to other career opportunities. We've asked him a few questions below about his experience studying in the Public International Law LLM and how it helped him prepare for his current career.

Where do you presently work, what is your job title, and what does your work involve?

I have recently left my position as Chair of the National Agency of Public Registry, within the Ministry of Justice of Georgia, and moved to Thailand with my wife who serves as a US diplomat. In this new chapter of our lives, along with partners in Georgia, I have recently founded a start-up digital product design agency called  Zezva, which will provide customers with UI/UX and digital design services

Why did you choose to study the Public International Law LLM here in Groningen?

As a bachelor's student in Georgia, I wanted to help my country legally tackle Russia's military occupation. I knew I needed to get an education from a top-ranked international institution. Some friends of mine in the Georgian legal circle had graduated from the University of Groningen and upon their recommendation I decided to pursue the program. It turned out to be one of the most successful decisions of my life.

What specifically did you enjoy about studying this LLM?

The international environment, first of all, but also the quality of teaching and the culture that professors nurtured that allowed for an open, lively exchange of ideas. And of course the amazing library!

Which courses (or lecturers) did you enjoy the most and why?

It's difficult to choose just one! UN Peacekeeping and Peace Enforcement with Assoc. Prof. Andre De Hoogh was a top one - it tied into my master's thesis and De Hoogh was a great advisor and mentor.

How did this LLM prepare you for your current career?

I was a lecturer in international law in Georgia for some time and of course that was directly relevant. While I don't currently use international law on a daily basis in my work, the skills of research, analytics, communication, and public speaking that I honed at the Faculty of Law remain as relevant as ever.

Who would you suggest this LLM to?

Any students seeking the best international education in a historic, highly recognized and respected university, taught with modern methodologies and understanding the relevance of international law to our lives today.

- Interview by: Dr. Chris Brennan, Marketing Advisor, Faculty of Law

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Interested in more information about our Public International Law LLM programme? You can ask questions directly to the Faculty by filling out our  information request form.