Julia Galera Oliva is a first-year researcher hailing from the southern Spanish city of Murcia. She started her academic journey in Madrid, where she obtained a dual Bachelor degree in Law and Political Science and Public Administration, followed by a Master degree in legal studies.
Julia's choice of the field of law was driven by her insatiable curiosity and desire to understand the intricacies of the society we live in. Her undergraduate studies in law and political science allowed her to explore her interests in politics, philosophy, and law. It was during this time that she discovered her true passion — Public International Law, a discipline to which she intends to devote her professional life.
Julia's decision to choose the EUI for her doctoral studies was far from arbitrary. She was drawn to the Institute not only for its prestige but also for its holistic approach to the field of law. The EUI's commitment to technical and theoretical excellence, combined with its endorsement of diverse and critical approaches to the discipline, aligns perfectly with Julia's vision for her doctoral project. Her research aims to provide a critical interdisciplinary inquiry into the international legal arena, involving various legal fields, academic disciplines, and different lenses through which international law can be studied and understood.
Julia's research focuses on Spain's imperialist past, specifically examining how Spain pursued colonial ownership and capital accumulation through private entities. Her work seeks to understand the relationship between the state and private entities, as well as the relationship between private entities and individuals. Her research examines the legal personality of companies, tracing their historical development and exploring their normative implications in the past, present, and future. Looking ahead to her long-term career goals, Julia envisions herself continuing her academic journey by teaching and researching. She sees the EUI as the perfect place to lay the foundations for becoming a distinguished researcher and scholar.
Outside of her academic pursuits, Julia enjoys reading fiction and running along the seaside.
We warmly welcome Julia to the EUI community, and we look forward to the invaluable insights and contributions she will bring to the field of Public International Law.