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Updated: 17-May-2007

News

HONORARY DEGREE FOR
HERNANDO DE SOTO

  Hernando de Soto with the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor in academic robes
Hernando de Soto (front) with Dr Terence Kealey (Vice-Chancellor) and Sir Martin Jacomb (Chancellor)

Tuesday 1st February 2005

On Saturday 29th January the University was delighted to honour a distinguished visitor, Hernando de Soto, and to confer on him the degree of Doctor of Letters. Hernando de Soto has played a leading part in encouraging changes in the framework of law in Peru that have recognised the property claims of thousands of people who had hitherto operated in the 'extra-legal' sector. These changes have transformed the lives of many poor people and greatly improved the rate of economic development of Peru. Around the globe, policy-makers in other countries are taking note of Hernando de Soto's work and are introducing similar reforms with the help of the Institute for Liberty and Democracy.

During his visit Mr de Soto met students, staff and guests of the University in a discussion group and he answered a range of questions about the importance of legal and political institutions to the process of economic development. After the discussion session he attended a ceremony at which he received his honorary degree from the Chancellor, Sir Martin Jacomb. The formalities completed, he met a range of invited guests and friends at an informal reception.

Report by Professor Martin Ricketts and the Web Team

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