The Human Rights Law Clinic (HRLC) is a programme designed to involve students in projects aimed at supporting the work of international, regional and national organisations engaged in the promotion and protection of human rights law.
Law students volunteering for the HRLC carry out comprehensive, high-quality research for partner organisations, which include Human Rights at Sea, Lawyers for Justice in Libya and the African Commission’s Committee on Prevention of Torture.
This year students have produced a series of high-quality reports, each of which will provide partners with crucial, up-to-date research that will feed directly into ongoing litigation and policy drafting, as well as informing future projects.
Ellen Brennen, a third-year law student, commented on the opportunity;
“Leading a team of students in research to formulate a database for the prevention of torture in Africa has taught me so much about how lacking the protection is for prevention of torture in practice, and about the support which states require to effectively implement protections for individuals.
The project has been an incredible experience, enabling me to assist in large-scale international projects which aim to make a real difference, even as a student. I’ve been privileged to work alongside professionals in the field and my team’s work is being used by international bodies to help combat the use of torture in certain States.
The experience has increased my interest within human rights matters and impelled me to pursue a career within this sector. It is a must for any student considering a career in human rights!”
Reflecting on the International Day for Victims of Torture, Sir Malcolm Evans, Professor of Public International Law and Chair of the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT) commented:
“Too many states still get away with torture - and there remains a reluctance to challenge those who are responsible. This has to stop. On the International Day for Victims of Torture, we should renew our commitments, and our efforts, to prevent torture from happening, helping those who have been victims of torture, and holding torturers and state sponsors of torture to account.”
More news about student projects can be found on the Human Rights Implementation Centre's website.