Ginger Without Borders

Life has a way of taking you places you never expected. For me, it lead me to leave behind veterinary science and step into the world of international law instead. I recently shared this journey with Kelby Ballena and Margarita Rosa Arango on The Advocate Next Door podcast.

We talked about living, studying, and working across North and South America, Oceania, and Europe—and how those experiences shaped my curiosity about the world and its legal systems. I also discussed my recent research on investment arbitrations arising from Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea (a region in Ukraine), exploring what it teaches us about territorial jurisdiction and international accountability.

Of course, we didn’t just stick to legal debates. Travel, cultural curiosity, and the lessons that come from stepping outside familiar borders all made their way into the conversation. It’s a reminder that the journey—literally and figuratively—shapes how we see the world.

Whether you’re drawn to international law, unconventional career paths, or just enjoy stories from the road, this conversation has something for you.

Listen to “Scientist and International Law Enthusiast Lena Raxter”