Gustavo Gozzi's International Law Book Gets Arabic Edition By ALC

The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) has released the Arabic version of "Rights and Civilisations: A History and Philosophy of International Law" by Gustavo Gozzi. This publication is part of the Kalima Project for Translation. Dr. Hussein Mahmoud translated the book, with Dr. Inaya Ezzeddine reviewing it.

The book delves into two critical periods in modernity's origins: the emergence of sovereign states and Europe's "civilising mission." These themes are evident in the works of early international law pioneers. They have persisted through various eras, including natural law in the 16th and 17th centuries, positivist philosophy in the 19th century, and pragmatism in the 20th century.

Gustavo Gozzi, an Italian professor at the University of Bologna, authored this insightful work. His research centres on human rights, humanitarian intervention, and constitutional democratic systems. Among his notable publications are "Political Models and Social Issues in Italy and Germany between the 19th and 20th Centuries" and "Democracy and Rights in Germany: From the Rule of Law to Constitutional Democracy."

The book scrutinises how the "civilising mission" evolved post-colonialism, raising pertinent questions. It asks if international law can genuinely promote justice without serving imperial agendas. It also questions whether a global international law can be based on diverse civilisations and legal systems. Additionally, it explores if extending good governance to third-world countries is a modern form of the Western civilising mission.

Dr. Hussein Mahmoud, who translated the book, is Dean of the School of Linguistics and Translation at Badr University in Cairo, Egypt. He started as a journalist before transitioning to academia, where he established several Italian language departments in Egyptian universities.

Translator's Accomplishments

Dr. Mahmoud has earned numerous awards such as Flaiano and Palliarani awards. His Arabic works include "Mahfouz in Italy" and "Selections from Modern Italian Poetry." In Italian, he has authored "Poetry of Public Squares." He has also translated many Italian works like "The Unknown Islam in the West," "Venice: Gateway to the East," and "Arabic Literature from the Renaissance to Present Day."

The book poses significant questions about international law's role today. It challenges readers to consider if it can be just without being imperialistic or if it can reflect a plurality of civilisations.

This publication by ALC underlines its commitment to enriching Arabic literature with diverse perspectives on history and philosophy.

With inputs from WAM