International Human Rights Law

Overview

International Human Rights (IHR) law is a growing field for attorneys interested in protecting human rights on a global scale. IHR Law is comprised of a broad spectrum of governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations focused on the alleviation of human suffering and the protection and promotion of human rights, addressing the full spectrum of human rights — economic, social, cultural, political and civil. This overlaps with key issue areas such as peace and security, development law, humanitarian assistance, and economic and social affairs. IHR law may involve addressing emerging human right norms and related issues via advocacy and preparation of filings before domestic and international courts, federal, state and local governments, international organizations and foreign governments, criminal tribunals, and other human rights bodies. Many IHR lawyers will need to be familiar not only with domestic law but with public international law and foreign law as well.

Skills/Personality Characteristics

  • A demonstrated dedication to working in the field of human rights and to social justice in general
  • Research, writing, analytical thinking, public speaking, and/or grassroots organizing
  • Foreign language skills
  • Comfort with working with people from different cultures
  • An understanding of public international law
  • Flexibility and willingness to carry out a wide range of responsibility with limited resources
  • Experience living and working abroad is highly recommended, especially in a developing country
  • Familiarity with primary human rights documents and declarations.

Where do international human rights lawyers practice?

IHR lawyers may work in international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), other non-profits, or for international courts such as the European Court of Human Rights. IHR lawyers may also work in law firms or, in some cases, the federal government.

Selected Related Courses at Brandeis School of Law

These courses have been taught in the last two years and may or may not be on the schedule for the next academic year. If you are interested in a course listed here, but the course is not on the schedule, please see the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs.

  • International Law
  • Contemporary Problems in International Law: International Human Rights Law
  • Immigration Law
  • Comparative Constitutional Law
  • European Union Law
  • National Security Law

Selected Faculty Who Teach in This Area

John Cross
Enid F. Trucios-Haynes

Student Organizations

  • International Law Society

Externships/Public Service Placement Opportunities

Externships

  • International Study Clinic/Externship
  • Immigration Law Externship

Public Service Placements

  • Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services
  • Kentucky Commission on Human Rights
  • Kentucky Refugee Ministries

Professional Associations

  • The American Society of International Law
  • The American Bar Association Section of International Law

For further reading, Careers in International Law, Swartz, Salli Anne (2008), and Careers in International Law: A Guide to Career Paths and Internships in International Law, American Society of International Law (2003), are available in the Law Library.