Waaldijk Orientation Fund continues professor’s life’s work on sexual orientation law
On Thursday 9 October, a signing ceremony was held in the Alumni Room of the Academy Building for the Waaldijk Orientation Fund. With the signing of the agreement, the creation of this new fund was formally confirmed.
The Waaldijk Orientation Fund is the initiative of Kees Waaldijk, Professor of Comparative Sexual Orientation Law at Leiden University, a chair that was sponsored by the Besty Brouwer Fund, a named fund within the Leiden University Fund (LUF). Through his own named fund at LUF, Waaldijk now aims to ensure that the field of sexual orientation and gender-diversity law remains firmly embedded within Leiden Law School.
The new fund comes at a time when the rights of LGBTQI+ people are under pressure worldwide. This underscores the importance of Waaldijk’s work and the continued relevance of his research. The fund not only builds on his life’s work but also represents a vital step in ensuring that his vision on justice and equality continues to inspire future generations.
Relationships, diversity, law: a crowdfunding campaign
There is a global need for legal experts who can develop and defend inclusive legal standards. The new ‘Orientation Law Fellowship’ will support master’s students in gaining specialised knowledge – in particular students from countries where sexual orientation or gender diversity is not legally recognised.
In his valedictory address in June, Waaldijk encouraged attendees to invest in the future of transnational sexual orientation law. If you would like to support research and teaching on the legal aspects of sexual orientation and gender diversity, consider donating to the Waaldijk Orientation Fund.
Professor with a lasting legacy
Kees Waaldijk has held the chair in Comparative Sexual Orientation Law at Leiden Law School for over 14 years. He published widely on topics relating to sexual orientation and law, making a significant contribution to the international development of this field. He will retire in November 2025.
The fund reflects Waaldijk’s wish to make an impact – both now and in the future. He will also include the fund in his will.
Official signing
Opening the event, Hester Bijl, Rector Magnificus of Leiden University, highlighted the value of named funds in strengthening research fields and creating opportunities for students. She also expressed her appreciation for Waaldijk’s years of dedication.
Professor Waaldijk then spoke briefly about the fund before joining Lilian Visscher (LUF Director) in signing the agreement, witnessed by family, friends and colleagues.
This agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter. The fund will support research and teaching in sexual orientation and gender diversity law, ensuring that Kees Waaldijk’s life’s work continues, thus paving the way for future generations of students and researchers at Leiden University.