prof.dr. LJ (Louis) Kotzé

Professor Louis Kotzé is an internationally recognized scholar specializing in environmental law and governance. As Chair of the Law Group at Wageningen University & Research, he leads interdisciplinary research and teaching initiatives focused on the legal dimensions of sustainability, the Anthropocene, and global environmental governance. His work explores the intersections of international environmental law, human rights, and planetary boundaries, with a strong emphasis on earth system law and its role in addressing complex socio-ecological challenges.

Before joining Wageningen University, Professor Kotzé held academic and leadership positions at North-West University (South Africa) and was a research fellow at several prestigious institutions, including the Max Planck Institute and the University of Lincoln. He has authored over 185 publications, including influential books and journal articles, and has secured more than €1.2 million in research funding.

Beyond academia, he serves on multiple international advisory panels and research committees, contributing to global environmental policy development. His work actively informs legal and governance strategies for sustainability transitions worldwide. At Wageningen, he is committed to advancing transdisciplinary legal research and fostering collaborations that contribute to innovative governance solutions for planetary well-being.

• University of Stellenbosch (1-1-2026/31-12-2029)
  I have been invited by the University of Stellenbosch to serve as extraordinary professor of law for a three year period with the option to extend it for another three years. I am grateful for this honourable recognition. The position is strictly non-remunerated. It will require me to visit that institution once a year and to participate in lectures and related academic activities. The position also opens up possibilities to collaborate closely with a leading university in Africa and to facilitate cooperation between the Law Faculty and the Law Group, including joint Phd supervision, funding applications, and teaching. Stellenbosch University will cover travel and accommodation costs. Again, no remuneration or per diem will be paid whatsover and there are no conflicts of interest.