In Memoriam – Professor Ran Hirschl (1963–2026)

We are saddened to share the passing of Professor Ran Hirschl (Ph.D., Yale), University Professor and the David R. Cameron Distinguished Professor of Political Science and Law, who held a cross-appointment with the Henry N.R. Jackman Faculty of Law at the University of Toronto. He died on May 19, 2026, after an extended battle with cancer.

Professor Hirschl was a path-breaking scholar of comparative constitutional law and a dedicated mentor to generations of students. Since joining the University of Toronto in 1999, he played a central role in shaping research at the intersection of comparative politics, constitutionalism, and public law.

He leaves behind an extraordinary scholarly legacy, including five major books and over 150 articles and book chapters. His work transformed the study of constitutional law globally, particularly through his analyses of judicial power, constitutional design, and the relationship between law and political institutions.

His monographs — including Towards Juristocracy, Constitutional Theocracy, Comparative Matters, and City, State — are widely recognized as foundational contributions to the field and have received multiple international awards and honours.

Professor Hirschl was also a deeply committed teacher and mentor. He supervised and taught generations of undergraduate and graduate students across law and political science, and was widely respected for his intellectual generosity and engagement.

He held numerous academic distinctions, including appointment as University Professor at the University of Toronto, one of the highest honours awarded by the institution, as well as major research awards and fellowships internationally.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, students, and colleagues. His intellectual legacy and impact on the study of law and constitutionalism will endure.