Viven Rao Krishna Moorthi

Areas of expertise

International law - International criminal law

Biography

Viven Rao is a doctoral researcher at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), conducting his PhD within the BruCeL research group under the supervision of Professor Stefaan Smis and Dr. Marco Longobardo. His doctoral research focuses on international criminal law, specifically examining the International Criminal Court (ICC), prosecutorial discretion, and pre-trial judicial oversight under the Rome Statute.

Viven is a dual-qualified Advocate and Solicitor of the High Court of Malaya and a Barrister-at-Law (Middle Temple). He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Master of Laws (LLM) in International Law. His academic and professional interests cover public international law, international human rights law, regional governance within ASEAN, and international humanitarian law. Alongside his academic pursuits, he brings diverse international experience in legal casework, global mobility administration, and educational mentorship. 

Research

Within the BruCeL research group at VUB, Viven Rao’s doctoral research investigates the intersection of prosecutorial discretion, judicial oversight, and institutional accountability within the framework of the ICC. Specifically, his thesis centers on the operational dynamics of Article 53 of the Rome Statute, covering the "interests of justice" criterion, alongside pre-trial judicial review mechanisms. As international criminal tribunals navigate increasingly complex geopolitical landscapes and resource constraints, the mechanisms governing case selection, prioritisation, and preliminary examinations are under heightened scrutiny. Viven Rao’s research critically evaluates how institutional checks and balances operate between the Office of the Prosecutor and the Pre-Trial Chambers. By examining case law, state practice, and foundational legal theory, the project explores how judicial oversight can effectively safeguard institutional integrity while balancing the expectations of victims and the international community.

In addition to his core doctoral thesis, his broader research portfolio engages with public international law, regional human rights protection, and the application of international humanitarian law in contemporary conflicts. He also maintains a strong academic interest in regional governance frameworks, particularly examining the relationship between ASEAN and the international criminal justice system. Through active participation in international workshops, peer-reviewed publications, and academic collaboration, his work aims to contribute meaningful insights to scholarship and practice in international law.

Functions outside of the VUB

Viven maintains active professional qualifications as an Advocate and Solicitor of the High Court of Malaya and a Barrister-at-Law (Middle Temple Inn), engaging with legal networks and practice standards across jurisdictions. He brings foundational professional background as an OISC Level 1 Immigration Advisor, a Volunteer Legal and Support Service Caseworker assisting individuals and organisations through complex regulatory frameworks.

Viven is experienced in academic tutoring and student mentorship (including prior engagement with Teach For Malaysia), guiding junior researchers and students in legal writing and policy analysis.

Prizes

• Northumbria University School of Law’s Student Contribution Roll Award (in recognition of outstanding contribution to the Law School).