Esther Jaromitski (Public International Law LLM, 2021 PhD Candidate at QMUL)
Hi! My name is Esther Jaromitski, and I am a PhD Candidate at the Centre for Commercial Law Studies at Queen Mary University. After receiving a distinction for my LLM in Public International Law at Queen Mary University, I began my research on a topic I am very passionate about: ensuring social media platforms contribute to peace and stability in the world. Specifically, my research recognises that unprecedented technological progress, globalisation and the Covid-19 pandemic have enhanced the need for transnational regulation of social media platforms. My PhD project develops a foresighted approach for international law to adequately adapt to the role of social media companies in the digital age.
I am currently teaching a Module titled ‘Internet Jurisdiction’ as part of the Distance Learning LLM at Queen Mary University, and I am the PhD Representative of CCLS this year. Alongside my research, I am a published poet and novelist, and I believe that imagination and creativity must be at the centre of cutting-edge solutions for 21st-century global challenges.
This year, during my first year of PhD, I worked as a trainee at the European Union Delegation to the United Nations in New York, experiencing first-hand diplomacy. Previously, I contributed to various NGOs, institutes and think tanks, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and Spielberg’s Shoah Foundation. I also love film-making and have produced a short-film adaptation of my first novel ‘Escape’, which tells the story of human rights enforcement in youth communities in London.
I am so very grateful for completing the LLM at Queen Mary University because it allowed me to study a broad range of fascinating things- from international criminal law to film business. I think that Queen Mary is a wonderful place, and you have to choose to make the most out of it. The people at QMUL are all inspiring, and I learn so much from my colleagues daily. We are blessed to be in such a diverse, international environment; where every person has a fascinating story to tell, so you must make sure to listen.
My other advice to current QMUL students is to be self-reflective: journal to find out what you are most passionate about and how you can contribute to improving our world. At Queen Mary, we have the privilege of education, and now, more than ever, in a century marked by war, climate catastrophe, and political extremism, I believe it is our duty to use our knowledge wisely. Another good piece of advice I got is never to compare yourself. Do what you are passionate about and be honest about who you are and what you love. Put in the hard work but be kind to yourself at all times. At the end of each day, we must remember what matters most: health and love for all living and the planet. I hope this little introduction was helpful to you, and I wish you all the luck, inspiration and the very best on your path!
Find out more about Esther's literary work.