Currently only a very few academic institutions for law and development exist around the world. The LDI aims to become an international network and center for law and development studies. Academics, students, government agencies and non-governmental organizations, as well as all other professionals and organizations interested in the area of law and development, can participate in the activities of the LDI and benefit from them.

The LDI promotes world-class research in law and development studies, develop and teach courses in law and development, undertake law and development projects, and promote various law and development activities including hosting academic conferences and facilitating international collaboration in the study of law and development.