Activist Lawyer

In this episode of Accidental Activist, Johanna Nejedlová, co-founder of Konsent, shares the story behind one of Europe's most influential consent education initiatives. Johanna discusses how her work emerged from a desire to challenge harmful attitudes around sex, relationships and consent, and explains why education is essential to preventing violence and promoting healthy relationships. She reflects on the development of the Konsent movement, the challenges of changing public attitudes, and the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge and confidence to understand and communicate consent. More info: Konsent Content warning: This episode discusses sexual violence and may be distressing for some listeners.   Accidental Activist A new Activist Lawyer Mini-Series    What turns an ordinary person into an activist? Accidental Activist is a special mini-series from the Activist Lawyer Podcast sponsored by Humanitas Media and hosted by Brian Dooley and Sarah Henry. Through candid conversations with campaigners and human rights defenders, the series explores how people from a range of backgrounds found themselves standing up against injustice. These are not stories of people who set out to become activists. They are stories of individuals who responded to challenges, inequality, discrimination, environmental harm, violence or injustice in their communities and discovered the power of collective action. Their experiences demonstrate that you do not need a particular qualification, title or profession to become an advocate for change. All it takes is a willingness to act. Across four compelling episodes, Brian and Sarah speak with remarkable guests about their journeys, achievements, challenges and the lessons they have learned along the way.   Humanitas Media  This episode is part of a limited series sponsored by Humanitas Media, where human rights meet human stories. Brian Dooley's upcoming book, DEFIANT: Profiles of Resistance, will be released on October 13, 2026, published by Humanitas Media. Learn more at HumanitasMedia.org and connect with them on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Today's episode is a short update from our host, Sarah with some exciting news about our upcoming mini-series. More info coming soon!

In this episode of Activist Lawyer, Sarah speaks with Zahraa Al-Jameel, a law student, content creator and passionate autism advocate working to challenge exclusion and systemic oppression. Zahraa advocates for a more intersectional approach to autism, highlighting the experiences of marginalised autistic people who are too often overlooked or excluded from mainstream conversations. Her work explores the intersection between law, accessibility, disability and social justice as she continues her journey to become a human rights barrister.   Law student and content creator with a passion for autism advocacy and intersectionality, Zahraa Al-Jameel provides a safe inclusive space for everyone in her social media platform. Her advocacy includes autism and how to make autism advocacy intersectional and focuses on the marginalised autistic people that are often dismissed by whitewashed autism media. She is unafraid to call out any hypocrisy, lack of intersectionality and any form of systematic oppression and violence. She uses her voice to uplift and collaborate with marginalised autistic people alongside parents, teachers, doctors, etc. Zahraa leads with accountability, authenticity, humility and honesty.    https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/autism-month-series-2026-unemployment-zahraa-al-jameel-pq1ce - autism and unemployment article.    https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/jump-juztice-accessibility-law-how-saves-lives-zahraa-al-jameel-fnoae - accessibility and the law.

When Louise O'Keeffe took her case all the way to the European Court of Human Rights, she changed the landscape of accountability in Ireland. But decades later, many of her former classmates and survivors of sexual abuse in Irish schools are still seeking redress.   In this episode, Sarah is joined by Louise O'Keeffe and Professor Conor O'Mahony of University College Cork, to discuss justice, state responsibility, and why the campaign continues.    Links to the judgement in O'Keeffe v Ireland:    https://hudoc.echr.coe.int/eng?i=001-140235#{%22itemid%22:[%22001-140235%22]}    Link to Prof Conor O'Mahony https://research.ucc.ie/en/persons/conor-omahony/   Trigger Warning This episode contains discussion of sexual abuse, including references to traumatic experiences that some listeners may find distressing. Listener discretion is advised. If this topic may be triggering for you, please consider whether it is safe for you to listen or access this content at this time.

What happens when citizenship can be taken away? Why are immigration detainees still struggling to access quality legal advice? And has legal aid been 'strangled by reform'? Host Sarah Henry sits down with Dr Ayesha Riaz to discuss her fascinating research on citizenship deprivation, immigration detention and the long decline of legal aid. Drawing on years of practice and academic research, Ayesha examines the consequences of government policy for lawyers, migrants and access to justice across the UK.   About Ayesha Riaz Ayesha has been working at the University of Greenwich since 2019. She worked as a part time teacher and taught undergraduate students law at the London School of Economics and Political Science for several years. She also worked as a visiting lecturer at the University of East London.   Ayesha completed her PhD from Queen Mary University of London on 30 November 2025. As part of the PhD, she investigated the relationship between the British State and solicitors that assist asylum seekers in the UK from 1949 to 2024. Ayesha's interest in this area emanated from her professional experience. She previously worked at the largest legal aid firm in the UK and provided legal advice and assistance to those that were vulnerable such as detained and non-detained asylum seekers/victims of domestic violence and victims of trafficking.   Ayesha has a keen interest in conducting research. One of her papers was awarded the best paper prize by a doctoral student from the Society of Legal Scholars in 2025. She previously won the Impactful Research and Knowledge Exchange Award as part of the staff awards at the University of Greenwich in 2024. Her work has appeared in leading law journals, and has been cited by the United Nations General Assembly and the House of Lords International Agreements Committee.   Find out more about Dr Riaz's work and publications here:   Ayesha Riaz | People | University of Greenwich

We revisit the archive of Activist Lawyer episodes with one of the UK's leading feminist lawyers and founder and director of Centre for Women's Justice - Harriet Wistrich.   We were reminded of the importance of Harriet's work after watching the ITV drama 'Believe Me,' which tells the story of the women who fought for justice and to be believed after serious sexual assaults perpetrated by convicted serial sex offender -  John Worboys.  The series, and indeed this episode, highlights the courage of the survivors and their legal team who challenged systemic failures in the justice system.  Although this conversation was recorded some time ago, the issues we discuss remain as relevant and urgent as ever.   Please take time to enjoy this episode - share and review on whatever podcast platform you use.    TW - This episode contains discussion of sexual assault, rape and violence against women.  Listener discretion is advised.    Centre for Women's Justice https://www.centreforwomensjustice.org.uk/

Sarah is joined by Sahar Francis, a Palestinian lawyer and human rights defender, to discuss Israel’s recently passed “Prisoners’ Execution Law” and its devastating impact on Palestinian political prisoners. With over 10,000 detainees- including 350 children, Sahar highlights the ongoing torture, extrajudicial killings, and systemic abuses perpetrated by Israel. Drawing on her 27 years defending prisoners,  she shares the fight for human rights and justice for Palestinian prisoners on the international stage as well as highlighting the brutal systems of apartheid operational on a domestic level.  Listen and find out more about how you can contribute to this work.   About Sahar Francis   Sahar Francis is a Palestinian lawyer and human rights defender, an expert in international humanitarian law, international human rights law, and international criminal law. She has worked for the last three decades, defending Palestinian political prisoners held under the Israeli occupation. Francis advocates against torture, arbitrary detention, for the guarantees of fair trial procedures, rights of women and children, and works to abolish death penalty, locally and regionally.   Francis has worked closely with the UN special procedures system and appeared as a witness in front of the United Nations Fact-Finding Missions and Commissions of Inquiry. She has drafted legal cases on torture, arbitrary detention, denial of fair trial and forcible transfer of prisoners with the International Criminal court. Francis has met scores of diplomats, parliamentarians, political leaders and activists all around the world, to promote justice for the Palestinian people.   Link to Addameer - https://addameer.ps/

In today’s episode, Sarah is joined by activist Basira Paigham and legal officer, Ebrahim from ‘Rainbow Afghanistan.’ Learn more about the work of this impactful and vital organisation established to defend the rights, dignity and lives of members of Afghanistan’s LGBTQI+ community.  Rainbow Afghanistan, is a non-profit organisation established to defend the rights, dignity, and lives of members of Afghanistan’s LGBTIQ+ community. The organisation’s work is rooted in decades of structural discrimination, criminalising laws, and deeply embedded cultural and traditional oppression that have made it extremely difficult for LGBTQ+ individuals including gay, bisexual, lesbian, transgender, intersex, non-binary, and queer people to live freely and safely in Afghanistan.   Social Media & Links LinkedIn: Rainbow Afghanistan (Company Page) Facebook: Rainbow Afghanistan Instagram: @rainbowafghanistan X (Twitter): @Afghani1Rainbow Website: Rainbow Afghanistan https://rainbowafghanistan.com/

Sarah is joined by Dr Yousef Aljamal on his visit to Ireland as Gaza co-ordinator at the American Friends Service Committee.  This discussion focuses on writing as a form of resistance from the perspective of a Palestinian growing up in Gaza at the hands of Israeli apartheid and oppression.  Dr Aljamal, in a candid conversation, shares how the genocide and decades of aggression impacted his family, friends and neighbours, focusing in particular on his mentor, colleague and friend – renowned Gaza poet – Refaat Alareer, author of ‘If I must Die.’   Yousef is a Palestinian writer, translator, and a refugee from Al-Nuseirat refugee camp in the Gaza Strip. He recently completed his PhD at the Middle East Institute at Sakarya University. He also serves as the Gaza Coordinator for AFSC, supporting humanitarian work, peacebuilding, and advocacy for justice.   He is co-host of the PalCast podcast alongside Tony Groves, where they explore Palestinian history, politics, and lived experience through long-form conversations.   His writing spans both academic publications and international media platforms, including Al Jazeera, where he brings critical insight into the realities of life in Gaza. His work centres on Palestinian literature, resistance, and the lived realities of life under occupation and siege. Having endured multiple wars in Gaza, he brings both intellectual depth and lived experience to international audiences.   Central to this visit is his co-edited book, ‘If I Must Die’, a powerful collection honouring the life and legacy of Refaat Alareer—the Gaza poet, teacher, and mentor killed in an Israeli airstrike in December 2023.   The book takes its title from Alareer’s final poem, which has resonated globally as a testament to dignity, resistance, and the enduring power of words in the face of violence. Through poetry, essays, and reflections, it amplifies Palestinian voices and preserves cultural memory amid ongoing devastation.   Further reading: Al Jazeera articles: https://www.aljazeera.com/author/yousef-m-aljamal Academic profile: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=PD3iv-MAAAAJ&hl=en AFSC- https://afsc.org/    Links to 'If I Must Die' https://orbooks.com/catalog/if-i-must-die/  https://inthesetimes.com/article/refaat-alareer-israeli-occupation-palestine  https://www.amazon.co.uk/If-Must-Die-Poetry-Prose/dp/1682196216

In this episode of The Activist Lawyer, we’re joined by barrister Ifé Thompson, whose ground breaking work is reshaping criminal defence through a racial justice and linguistic lens. Ifé is the host of the Black British English Podcast and is widely recognised by communities and by her peers as a champion for linguistic, cultural and human rights.  From challenging the criminalisation of rap and drill lyrics in court to defending the cultural context of Black language, Ifé’s work pushes the boundaries of how the law understands evidence and harm. We also explore her wider advocacy as a movement lawyer and how centring community can transform legal practice. Links to cases, organisations, and Ife’s work are included in the show notes.   Ifé Thompson is a barrister at Nexus Chambers practising criminal defence, family law and human rights, nationally and internationally recognised for her pioneering work at the intersection of crime, racial justice, and human rights. Her practice focuses on youth justice, protest law, and racially aggravated matters, with a specialist emphasis on language-based injustice and the use of racial trauma within criminal defence matters. Her legal practice challenges how Black British English (BBE), African American Vernacular English (AAVE), and rap or drill lyrics are misrepresented in court as evidence of criminality rather than being recognised as cultural and linguistic rights.   She has transformed defence strategies by centring linguistic expertise and racial justice with now many lawyers using this strategy in their cases. In R v LZ (2024), she successfully defended a Black child prosecuted for using AAVE, and in R v L (2022), she successfully challenged the misinterpretation of Jamaican Patois by a non-linguist witness. In the widely publicised March 2025 “N-word trial,” she secured the withdrawal of charges against a Black woman accused of obscene communication for using the N-word, arguing that intra-community use of the term must be understood within its cultural and historical context.   She describes herself as a movement lawyer committed to confronting injustice at its roots. She treats the courtroom as a site of struggle in exposing state violence and systemic harm all while wielding legal tools in creative, disruptive ways. She believes the law, though shaped by oppressive systems, can be repurposed as a tool in the hands of communities fighting for liberation.   Prior to coming to the Bar, she founded two civil society organisations, one being BLAM UK, which supports Black cultural education and wellbeing alongside advocacy rights of Black children in UK schools and a legal observing group focused on protecting protest rights during Black Lives Matter. She was also a United Nations Human Rights Fellow in 2020 and continues to contribute to both international and domestic efforts to challenge systemic racism within the criminal justice system.     In April 2025, she was invited to deliver training to second-six pupils and junior tenants on challenging systemic racism in youth courts, as part of the Youth Practitioners’ Association. She was also commissioned to update the Youth Justice Legal Centre’s Rap & Drill Guide, introducing new sections on the criminalisation of Black language, relevant human rights arguments, and how to use international and ECHR case law when responding to challenges about the admissibility of expert evidence. The updated guide is now considered an authoritative resource for criminal defence practitioners.   Her presence on Legal Twitter has also had a significant professional impact. Lawyers frequently approach her in court after recognising her from social media, sharing how much they’ve learned from her case insights. Her tweets about the racial justice lens she applies in her criminal defence cases have led to requests from her peers for draft sentencing notes and strategic guidance when raising issues of race. These exchanges have contribu

We are delving into the archive and sharing this 2022 Activist Lawyer episode featuring solicitor Jude Copeland. Jude shares his journey into law, his practice as a legal technology specialist and his outstanding work with the LGBTQ+ community.  We chose to ‘replay’ this episode as it is full of brilliant anecdotes and stories showing how activists, campaigners and fearless people can help shape the law for our benefit inspiring Jude and others in the profession.  Enjoy!

In this episode, host Sarah speaks with solicitor Jack Murphy of McIvor Farrell Solicitors about his work across a broad range of human rights areas. From representing Raymond McCord Sr in the long-running campaign for an Article 2-compliant public inquiry into his son’s murder, to challenging unlawful housing decisions affecting refugees and social housing tenancy succession, Jack discusses the legal and emotional realities of working on challenging human rights cases.   The conversation also explores prisoner rights and cultural dignity following a case that led to Irish language books being permitted in Maghaberry Prison, the pressures facing access to justice and legal aid, and the wider human impact of housing and homelessness litigation. Jack reflects on standout moments in his career to date, his work with Belfast Homeless Services, and offers advice for aspiring lawyers hoping to use the law as a tool for social change.

In this episode of Activist Lawyer, host Sarah Henry speaks with Roi Bachmutsky from Amnesty International’s Business and Human Rights team about corporate criminal liability - how companies become implicated in international crimes, and what it takes to investigate and pursue those cases. From tracing supply chains to preparing criminal complaints, Roi unpacks how corporate accountability operates in practice.   Drawing on his experience, including his work with the Global Echo Litigation Centre - a small non-profit law firm he founded and led to focus on strategic litigation against companies implicated in war crimes in the occupied Palestinian territory, Roi reflects on a complaint linked to war crimes in the West Bank. He shares key lessons on gathering and assessing evidence, engaging ethically with law enforcement, and staying resilient in emotionally demanding work.   A thoroughly insightful and compelling conversation for anyone interested in working in this emerging field of law.   Roi Bachmutsky is a human rights attorney specializing in strategic litigation against corporate actors. He currently serves as a Legal Advisor and Researcher on Amnesty International’s Business and Human Rights team, where he manages the organization’s Corporate Crimes Project and recently authored the Corporate Crimes Handbook.   Before joining Amnesty, Roi co-founded and directed the Global Echo Litigation Center, a non-profit law firm that represents Palestinian communities in strategic litigation seeking to hold companies accountable for complicity in violations of international law in the occupied Palestinian territory. He has also supported prosecutions of the most serious international crimes at the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court and the Commission for International Justice and Accountability.   Prior to becoming a lawyer, Roi worked for the Israeli human rights organisation Breaking the Silence.   For more on Roi Bachmutsky ’s work visit his website: Roi Bachmutsky - International Lawyer

We kick off our first Activist Lawyer Book Club of 2026 – with ‘Through the Gates of Hell – American Injustice at Guantanamo Bay’ by Joshua Colangelo – Bryan.   Listeners to the podcast will remember a recent episode featuring lawyer and author , Joshua Colangelo – Bryan discussing his career in international human rights law, his role with Human Rights First and his latest publication which of course features as our first Book Club 2026 read!     Please join us if you can: info@activistlawyer.com    Email us Thursday 19th March 2026 6-7pm GMT Via Zoom

Host Sarah Henry interviews Keir Monteith KC from Garden Court Chambers, discussing his pivotal work with the Art Not Evidence campaign. Keir explores the use of rap lyrics as evidence in court, shining a light on the systemic racism that pervades the criminal justice system. He shares the story of Ademola Adedeji, an aspiring law student whose conviction for conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm was quashed after new evidence revealed he had been wrongfully identified in a video in which drill music played. This case, part of the Manchester 10 appeal, underscores the urgent need for reform. Listen in and support the Art Not Evidence campaign, fighting for a fairer criminal justice system by advocating for a restriction on the use of creative and artistic expression as evidence in criminal trials. Keir Monteith KC is a highly sought-after leading silk who represents clients facing heavyweight criminal allegations. He has defended in numerous murders, industrial-scale Class A drug importations, high profile National Crime Agency cases, £100M frauds, multi-million-pound confiscations, escape from custody cases and heavily armed Organised Crime Group conspiracies. Keir is ranked for criminal law in Chambers UK and the Legal 500. He is also ranked in Tier 1 for Fraud in the Legal 500. Keir is an Honorary Professor of Law and Simon Fellow at the University of Manchester. He is currently briefed in two murder cases; has obtained leave to appeal in a murder; is instructed in a high profile triple murder CCRC application and is briefed in a multi-handed Class A drugs conspiracy allegedly involving a machine gun, other firearms and a turnover of almost 1 metric tonne – 35M worth of cocaine. Keir sits as a Recorder (part-time Crown Court Judge) and is a training tutor for the Judicial College.   Keir acted for Ademola Adedeji in his historic and ground-breaking appeal, where his conviction for conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm was quashed in early 2025.   Links: For more on Keir Monteith KC’s work: https://gardencourtchambers.co.uk/barrister/keir-monteith-kc/   For super merchandise to support Art not Evidence: Art Not Evidence official store – Art Not Evidence shop   Art not Evidence Campaign https://artnotevidence.org/

We are delighted to welcome two brilliant lawyers, Marbré Stahly-Butts and Ameca Reali, to the Activist Lawyer podcast. Talking to our host Sarah Henry, the discussion centres on movement lawyering - what it is, what it takes, and how lawyers can be forces for liberation. Marbré and Ameca have recently launched an excellent new book, Lawyering for Liberation: A Toolbox for Movement Lawyers -  an insightful, practical guide for lawyers and social justice workers who want to make real and meaningful change.   Marbré Stahly-Butts Marbré Stahly-Butts is a distinguished lawyer, scholar, and leading voice in movement lawyering. She currently serves as an Associate Professor of Law at CUNY School of Law, where her teaching and research focus on abolition, racial justice, and law as a tool for transformative social change. Prior to academia, Marbré co-founded and served as Executive Director of Law for Black Lives, a national network of lawyers, legal workers, and advocates committed to advancing Black liberation through collective legal strategies. Her leadership in this movement lawyering community helped shape frameworks that centre abolitionist politics, Black feminist thought, and anti-capitalist critique in legal practice. Marbré’s professional journey includes work with grassroots organisations, policy development, and national campaigns to advance racial and economic justice, reflecting her commitment to building responsive legal infrastructure for social movements. She holds a J.D. from Yale Law School and has been a central figure in both scholarship and practice that bridges law, activism, and systemic change.   Ameca Reali Ameca Reali is an accomplished civil rights attorney and nonprofit leader dedicated to housing justice, racial equity, and the empowerment of communities historically denied fair treatment under the law. She is the Executive Director of the Louisiana Fair Housing Action Centre, where she leads efforts to enforce fair housing laws and dismantle discrimination across the state of Louisiana. Before this role, Ameca was Membership Director at Law for Black Lives, where she built and strengthened a network of thousands of lawyers and legal workers committed to supporting Black liberation and movement lawyering. Her career spans over a decade of advocacy, including co-founding and directing community-based legal initiatives, and developing programs that address housing insecurity, economic justice, and systemic inequality. A graduate of Loyola University College of Law, Ameca brings both lived experience and deep professional expertise to her work advancing social justice and transformative legal practice.   About Lawyering for Liberation Lawyering for Liberation: A Toolbox for Movement Lawyers is a timely and powerful manifesto offering concrete tools for legal professionals and activists engaged in struggle for justice. Edited by Marbré Stahly-Butts and Ameca Reali, the book draws on years of frontline movement work and collective insight from lawyers, organizers, and legal workers. Grounded in abolitionist politics, Black queer feminism, and anticapitalist analysis, this guide reframes lawyering not as an isolated profession but as a strategic part of broader social movements seeking liberation and systemic transformation. Topics include jail and bail support, protester defense, reparations, housing justice, and more — all oriented toward building long-term power and community-rooted change.   For more on Marbré and Ameca's work check out: - https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Lawyering-for-Liberation-by-Ameca-Reali-editor-Marbre-Stahly-Butts-editor/9780520392359?srsltid=AfmBOop_GVO9v4PiRYNvAVAuoExGdCdAtksZYBJYr1rn7j4_nEUTOfBq - https://www.instagram.com/amecareali?igsh=MThocHU1YWt3YWp4Ng== -https://www.instagram.com/marbrecaryn?igsh=MWo4YTFzcWg2Z2Zieg==

Activist Lawyer Podcast, host Sarah Henry sits down with Diarmuid Brecknell, solicitor at Phoenix Law, to discuss his pivotal role in securing justice for victims of historical abuse and families affected by the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Diarmuid shares his experience of working on inquests, inquiries, and actions against public authorities, and sheds light on his involvement in some of the most high-profile and sensitive cases in recent years. Tune in to hear about the challenges, triumphs, and the ongoing fight for accountability in some of the most complex legal battles in Ireland.   Diarmuid is a Solicitor in the Public Law, Inquests, and Inquiries Department at Phoenix Law. He completed his LLB at Ulster University before graduating from the Institute of Professional Legal Studies at Queen’s University Belfast in 2025. Diarmuid specialises in inquests, inquiries and actions against public authorities and is instructed in some of the most high-profile and sensitive cases in the jurisdiction. He also acts in several high-value civil claims arising from the actions of both public bodies and private organisations. Diarmuid has assisted in some of the most contentious and complex legal challenges brought against public authorities in recent years. His experience includes involvement in the landmark Supreme Court case Re McGuigan & McKenna (the “Hooded Men”) and the Court of Appeal decision in Re Barnard (the “Glenanne Series”), which resulted in an order for a fresh investigation into more than 120 murders, Operation Denton. He is also instructed in the significant civil actions flowing from these matters and has played a key role in securing substantial settlements for victims and survivors in claims against the PSNI, MOD, and other state bodies. Diarmuid’s extensive inquest and inquiry experience includes appearing in the historic Stardust Fire Inquest in Dublin, one of the largest and most complex inquests ever held in Ireland. Representing families who had campaigned for justice for over four decades, Diarmuid was part of the legal team that ultimately secured unlawful killing verdicts for all 48 victims, a landmark outcome that overturned 40 years of injustice and fundamentally reshaped public understanding of the tragedy. Diarmuid’s experience also includes the Ballymurphy Inquest, which examined the deaths of ten civilians killed during the introduction of internment in 1971. After nearly five decades, the Coroner found that all of those who died were entirely innocent of wrongdoing and that their killings were unjustified and unlawful. In addition, Diarmuid has worked on the Hickson Public Inquiry into historic child sexual abuse committed by Bill Kenneally in Waterford from 1970-1990s. Phoenix Law acted for survivors in their pursuit of transparency and accountability from institutions such as An Garda Síochána, Tusla, and the political leadership of the period, all of which had received reports of abuse but failed to intervene, allowing it to continue. Diarmuid is also currently instructed by over 380 victims of Michael Shine, one of the largest and most significant institutional-abuse cases ever brought in the State. He has helped progress the matter from its earliest stages to its current point, where a government-led scoping exercise is now underway to determine the most suitable model for a formal public inquiry. Throughout this process, he has represented survivors before senior public officials, including the Taoiseach, ensuring that their voices and experiences remain at the centre of the emerging investigative framework. Alongside his public law work, Diarmuid continues to act in multiple high-value civil claims and has experience in complex commercial litigation in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.   For more on Diarmuid’s work, check out: https://www.phoenix-law.org/

Host Sarah Henry is joined by international lawyer Eitan Diamond, who specialises in international humanitarian law and human rights law. As Manager and Senior Legal Expert at the IHL Centre, Eitan leads efforts in the Israeli-Palestinian context.   Discussing the ongoing challenges faced by human rights organisations, he speaks about Israeli-imposed restrictions on humanitarian and human rights groups operating in the region and emphasises the crucial role of civic society in holding governments accountable under international law.    Learn more about working in the field of IHL and IHRL as this episode explores the intersection of international law, justice, and activism, offering insights on how we should continue to push for change and accountability.    About Eitan Diamond     Eitan Diamond is an international lawyer specialising in international humanitarian law (IHL) and international human rights law. He serves as Manager and Senior Legal Expert at the IHL Centre overseeing its work in the Israeli-Palestinian context. He also serves on the managerial boards of the NGOs Public Committee against Torture in Israel and Parents against Child Detention, and on the editorial board of the Journal of International Humanitarian Legal Studies.   Eitan has previously worked, inter alia, as an expert consultant for UNICEF, for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and at the research centre Forensic Architecture; as Executive Director of the NGO Gisha; as a Legal Advisor for the Delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Israel and the Occupied Territories; and as Researcher and Legal Advisor for the NGO B’Tselem.   Alongside his work as a practitioner, Eitan engages in academic research and has a range of publications on IHL-related themes. His academic qualifications include a PhD from the Meitar Centre for Advanced Legal Studies at Tel Aviv University’s Faculty of Law; an LLM in Public International Law from the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he was a Chevening Scholar; and an LLB from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He is also a recipient of a Diploma in Human Rights awarded by the Academy of European Law at the European University Institute.       To find out more about the work and organisations discussed in this episode, please see the following links:   For general information about the IHL Centre’s work in Israel Palestine: https://www.diakonia.se/ihl/jerusalem/  Links to our publications are available here: https://www.diakonia.se/ihl/news/?category=israel-palestine-publication   An Easy Guide on IHL for professionals working in the oPt: https://www.diakonia.se/ihl/news/easy-guide-to-international-humanitarian-law/  A resource for our publications regarding the hostilities and violence in the oPt: https://www.diakonia.se/ihl/jerusalem/2023-2024-hostilities-escalating-violence-opt/  A resource for our publications regarding legal proceedings before international court relating to Israel and the oPt: https://www.diakonia.se/ihl/jerusalem/proceedings-before-international-courts-relating-to-israel-and-the-opt/  A resource for our publications regarding shrinking civic and humanitarian space in Israel-Palestine: https://www.diakonia.se/ihl/jerusalem/shrinking-space/  You can also follow Eitan Diamond’s work here:  LinkedIn and SSRN

Host Sarah Henry meets Joshua Colangelo-Bryan, a renowned human rights lawyer and special counsel at Human Rights First. Joshua shares his journey into law, his role in the fight for justice at Guantanamo Bay, and the inspiration behind his new book Through the Gates of Hell: American Injustice at Guantanamo Bay.   Joshua Colangelo-Bryan is Special Counsel at Human Rights First, where he spearheads impact litigation and advocacy efforts to uphold democratic principles and support defenders of human rights. Beyond representing Guantanamo detainees, he has sued Turkey for assaulting protestors in Washington, D.C., the Trump administration for attempting to deport a college student based on protest activity, and a U.S. pastor who fomented legislation in Uganda criminalizing the LGBTQI community. Josh has conducted human-rights investigations in countries such as Yemen, Syria, and Bahrain. He also served with the United Nations Mission in Kosovo.   To find out more on Through the Gates of Hell, American Injustice at Guantanamo Bay visit: https://humanitasmedia.org/through-the-gates-of-hell/   For more on the work of  Human Rights First please see: https://humanrightsfirst.org/

A short reminder of the Activist Lawyer Book club with registration details is discussed in today’s episode.  The next Book Club Meeting features 'Pride and Prejudices Queer Lives and the Law by Keio Yoshida. Tune in to find out more!

In this special episode of The Activist Lawyer Podcast, host Sarah Henry sits down with international human rights lawyer and barrister, Keio Yoshida, to explore their journey into law and the release of their new book ‘Pride and Prejudices: Queer Lives and the Law.’ Celebrating the progression in LGBTQ+ rights while highlighting the pressing issues still faced by queer communities around the world, this conversation is an inspiring yet sobering look at the path ahead for LGBTQ+ legal advocacy.   Dr Keio Yoshida is a human rights barrister at Doughty Street Chambers and author of Pride and Prejudices: Queer lives and the law (Scribe, 2025), and co-author with Jen Robinson of Silenced Women (Octopus, 2024)/How Many More Women (Allen & Unwin, 2022). Keio is an international advisory board member of the Senator George J. Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice. In 2025, Keio was named by Attitude Magazine as one of the top 101 global LGBTQ+ trailblazers. Keio´s main domestic practice is in the areas of inquests, inquiries, and human rights law.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keioyoshida/

In this episode,  criminal defence attorney, business coach, and visionary educator Courtney Teasley, Esq. joins host Sarah Henry to discuss her revolutionary approach to justice. As the founder of emeffen™ and creator of the MFN Framework for Proactive Advocacy, Courtney is changing the way we fight systemic injustice. She shares how her work empowers disproportionately affected, marginalized minorities (D.A.M.M.) with the legal knowledge and strategies to prevent convictions before they even reach the courtroom. From grassroots campaigns to innovative legal education, Courtney is reshaping the criminal justice landscape and providing communities with the tools to proactively resist its most harmful traps.   Courtney Teasley, Esq. Criminal Defense Attorney | Advocacy Strategist | Founder of emeffen™ Courtney Teasley is a nationally recognized criminal defense attorney, business coach, and visionary educator shifting the paradigm on how we fight systemic injustice. As the founder of emeffen™ and creator of the MFN Framework for Proactive Advocacy, Courtney leads a movement to empower disproportionately affected, marginalized minorities (D.A.M.M.) with the legal knowledge and strategy to prevent convictions—before the courtroom ever comes into view. Her impact spans grassroots campaigns, justice-focused curriculum development, and legal education for both community members and lawyers. Through her Easy Way to Learn Your Rights book series, school-based criminal justice literacy programs, and D.A.M.M. Advocate and Legal Warrior trainings, Courtney equips everyday people, educators, and defense attorneys to proactively resist the criminal justice system’s most insidious traps. Whether speaking to students, churches, or national audiences, she delivers bold, accessible frameworks that challenge the status quo and offer real, community-rooted alternatives. Her work has not only influenced elections but has also helped reunite families separated by state violence and launched legal innovations that are reshaping justice across the country. Links to Courtney’s work: https://emeffen.com YouTube: @blacklawgirl https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_NMLkUJhmlU221ERBSAP7g Book Series: The Easy Way to Learn Your Rights https://emeffen.myshopify.com/products/book-bundle

In this episode, Sarah speaks with Roman Shortall, a solicitor and investigative journalist, about his unique career at the crossroads of law and media. Roman shares examples of where his legal background and journalistic approach have combined to secure impactful outcomes. This timely discussion also addresses the recent detention of activists and humanitarians by Israeli forces in international waters - a situation that has drawn criticism over the inaction of the international community. The conversation also explores High Court proceedings concerning the use of Irish airspace by military flights transporting arms to Israel.   Roman Shortall is a practising solicitor and co-founder of independent Irish news platform The Ditch. He won Newcomer of the Year at the Law Society of Ireland Justice Media Awards 2023 for his work exposing wrongdoing at Ireland's state planning body. For the past year, he has collaborated with investigative news outlets across the globe to uncover the flow of weapons to Israel.    To follow Roman’s work please see links below: https://www.ontheditch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/wereontheditch/?hl=en

In this episode, human rights expert and senior policy advisor Brian Dooley joins Sarah to share his experience of working in conflict zones and supporting human rights defenders as they work under extremely challenging circumstances.  This episode explores the intersection of activism and policy while offering insights into working in the human rights sector more generally. As Senior Advisor, Brian supports Human Rights First’s work with human rights activists in hostile environments. Prior to serving as Senior Advisor, Brian directed Human Rights First’s engagement with the U.S. government and other partners to end threats and obstacles to human rights defenders. From 2020 to 2023, he served as Senior Advisor to the U.N. Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders. Prior to joining Human Rights First, Brian spent twenty years working for U.S., Irish, and international NGOs. He led Amnesty International’s work on partnering with national NGOs in the global South. Brian has also worked as Head of Media for Amnesty International in London and in Dublin and as Director of Communications for Public Citizen in Washington, D.C. He is the author of several books about civil rights and U.S. politics. He had early experience on Capitol Hill, serving as a legislative researcher for Senator Edward Kennedy in the mid-1980s when he contributed to what ultimately became the 1986 Anti-Apartheid Act. In 1981 and 1982, Brian lived and worked as an English teacher and community organizer in a black township in South Africa, which was prohibited under apartheid’s racial segregation laws. Brian earned a PhD in the transnational history of rights from the University of East Anglia, an MPhil in Government and Politics from The Open University in London, and a B.A. with honours in Political Science from the University of East Anglia.

We kick start a new season of Activist Lawyer with dual-qualified solicitor Miglena Ilieva.  Miglena is founder of ILEX Law Group – a law firm specialising in UK and Irish immigration law.  Miglena shares what motivated her to build upon her career as an immigration lawyer practicing in multiple jurisdictions before setting up her own practice providing services across the UK and Ireland.  Miglena touches on some important cases flagging challenging areas of immigration law impacting her clients.  If you ever contemplated working in immigration law, listen in for solid advice and insights from an experienced immigration lawyer.   Miglena Ilieva - Founding Partner of ILEX Law Group, a law firm specialising in UK and Irish immigration law Miglena Ilieva is a dual-qualified solicitor in Ireland and in England and Wales with over 15 years of experience in immigration law. Her practice covers nationality, asylum, human rights, personal and corporate immigration. She has worked in leading markets including London, New York and Dublin and advises on both UK and Irish immigration matters.   Originally from Bulgaria, Miglena moved to the UK as a teenager. Her personal experience informs her practical, client-focused approach. She has handled a wide range of cases, including high-profile and complex matters, and has undertaken extensive pro bono work throughout her career. Miglena is motivated by helping clients succeed against systemic barriers in an area of law that is politically sensitive, fast-moving and often adversarial. Miglena has lived and worked across four continents. She is Co-Chair of the International Women’s Rights Committee at the New York Women’s Bar Association and previously co-chaired the Professional Support Lawyers Group at ILPA. Under her leadership, the PSL team she managed was shortlisted for a LexisNexis Award in 2019. Miglena also provides training on  Immigration Advice Authority (previously OISC) exams with Free Movement - a prominent UK immigration publication   She founded ILEX Law Group, a law firm specialising in UK and Irish immigration law in January 2025.

Sarah speaks with solicitor Aine Rice, who works on the Legacy Litigation and Historical Institutional Abuse Team at KRW Law, about Stormont’s proposed inquiry and redress scheme for survivors of Mother and Baby Homes. With growing concerns over the scheme being ‘unfit for purpose,’ Aine shares insights from her work supporting survivors and challenging systemic failings.   Aine Rice graduated from Queen’s University Belfast with a degree in Law in 2020. In 2021, she joined KRW Law as a paralegal, before commencing a training contract with the firm in September 2022. She qualified as a solicitor in 2024 and joined the firm’s Legacy Litigation and Historical Institutional Abuse Team. In this role, Aine has been involved in civil actions against religious organisations and state bodies in relation to historical abuse. She also advised the creators of the television series Blue Lights on a storyline involving a trainee solicitor working on a legacy case.   For more on Aine’s work follow: https://krw-law.ie/

A short reminder of the Activist Lawyer Book Club with registration details is discussed in today’s episode.  The next Book Club Meeting features ‘Just Mercy’ by Bryan Stevenson. Tune in to find out more!   Next Activist Lawyer Book Club 4th September 6.30pm (GMT) Register: info@activistlawyer.com

Activist Lawyer welcomes Kenneth Roth, former long-serving Executive Director of Human Rights Watch, for a compelling conversation about his career at the forefront of the global human rights movement. Drawing on his new book, Righting Wrongs: Three Decades on the Front Lines Battling Abusive Governments, Kenneth shares insights into confronting authoritarian regimes, defending the ‘rule of law’ in the Trump era, protecting academic freedom, and evaluating the role of international institutions today. He also shares valuable advice for those aspiring to a career in international human rights. This is a timely and thought-provoking episode with one of the world’s most respected human rights advocates- not to be missed!

In this inspiring episode, host Sarah Henry speaks with Lucy Barnes,  a Pupil Barrister at East Anglian Chambers.  Lucy is also Co-Founder and CEO of Lawyers Who Care, the UK's first organisation to facilitate mentoring, community and legal opportunities for care-experienced aspiring lawyers.  Lucy shares the story behind the movement she started advocating for meaningful change within the legal profession. From her personal journey to her recent recognition as Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Champion of the Year at the Women and Diversity in Law Awards, this conversation highlights the power of empathy, action, and what it truly means to be a lawyer who cares.    Lucy Barnes is a Pupil Barrister at East Anglian Chambers and Co-Founder and CEO of Lawyers Who Care, the UK's first organisation to facilitate mentoring, community and legal opportunities for care-experienced aspiring lawyers. Lucy is proudly care-experienced herself and an advocate for social mobility. In 2024, Lucy was recognised as one of the #100 faces of the Universities UK 100 Faces campaign, highlighting those who were the first in their family to go to university. She is also a TEDx speaker and a Major Scholar of the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple. Lucy appeared on BBC 4 Women's Hour in December 2023 and has also been featured in The Times and Counsel magazine. In March 2025, Lucy won Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Champion of the Year at the Women and Diversity in Law Awards.   Lucy passed the Scottish Law Society ‘Trauma-Informed Law’ accreditation course in 2023 and is passionate about making legal practices in England and Wales trauma-informed. As part of this aim, Lucy co-designed and facilitated the UK's first 'Care Aware' and 'Trauma-Informed training' course for Lawyers Who Care as part of mandatory training for its mentorship scheme. Lucy also wrote the first case for inclusion of care-experienced people in the legal sector in her June 2024 Bar Council article 'Raising the Bar: care-experienced people belong here.'

In this special episode of the Activist Lawyer Podcast, we explore a topic that’s incredibly important, yet still not properly understood – the state of mental health in the legal profession.  Host Sarah Henry speaks with Activist Lawyer co-founder Jonathan McKeown who, as a solicitor and owner of multiple businesses, shares his journey and personal insights into his own mental health struggles throughout his career.  Sarah and Jonathan discuss issues around ‘burn out’ within the profession, barriers to seeking help and the importance of striving for work-life balance in the hope that employers and managers can contribute to a more inclusive and safer workplace for all practitioners.   It’s a conversation that we think needs to be heard and we are interested in feedback and thoughts from our listeners on this pertinent topic!

In this compelling episode, host Sarah Henry speaks with the acclaimed and inspirational Dr S Chelvan – a multi-award-winning Activist Lawyer, Head of Immigration and Public Law at 33 Bedford Row Chambers, and Adjunct Professor at Southampton Law School. Dr Chelvan shares his personal and professional journey into law, offering insights into refugee and human rights cases centred on sexual or gender identity and expression. This episode is a deep dive into the work of a true Activist Lawyer – someone whose advocacy not only transforms individual lives but also shapes national and international legal landscapes. Not to be missed! Multi-award winning queer, person of colour, first generation Jaffna Tamil immigrant, living with disability, and self-identified Activist Lawyer Dr S Chelvan, Head of Immigration and Public Law at 33 Bedford Row Chambers, and Adjunct Professor at Southampton Law School,  is a globally recognised legal expert on refugee and human rights claims based on sexual or gender identity, and expression. Having practised in the field of Queer Refugee law since 2001, he has spearheaded strategic litigation in cases in the UK, up to and including the Supreme Court, and the European Court of Human Rights. Chelvan is specifically renowned to adopt a symbiotic approach to spearhead litigation, academic research, and policy development in refugee and migration law.  The past six months have included the judgment of the Strasbourg Court in MI v Switzerland, an Honorary Doctorate by the Open University, and profiled as the Times Lawyer of the Week. He adheres to, “being the mouthpiece for those who know the words, but have no voice” knowing as an activist lawyer, you will be driven by seeking justice for others, not yourself. For more about Chelvan and for links to cases discussed in this episode, please see https://www.33bedfordrow.co.uk/people/chelvan-s#content/introduction

A short reminder of the Activist Lawyer Book club with registration details is discussed in today’s episode.  The next Book Club Meeting features 'Righting Wrongs’ by Kenneth  Roth. Tune in to find out more!

In this special episode of Activist Lawyer, we continue the conversation on gender apartheid with a focus on youth activism and international advocacy. We're joined by Emily Humphreys from the Irish Campaign to End Gender Apartheid (ICEGA), alongside two passionate student activists, Rachel Forrest and Phoebe Sexton, from Midleton, County Cork. Rachel and Phoebe share how they’re mobilising young people in their community to take a stand, raise awareness, and demand action on gender apartheid. Emily provides vital updates on global developments, the growing movement to codify gender apartheid as a crime against humanity, and what campaigners and listeners need to know moving forward. Tune in for an episode filled with purpose, passion, and the powerful voices pushing for change!     Show notes: Check out and follow @end.genderapartheid on Instagram to find out more about the End Gender Apartheid Walk and campaign initiated by students in Midleton, County Cork.  Please also take the time to read this important article by Basira Paigham referred to in the recording: Read here:  https://maynoothinternationaldevelopment.home.blog/2025/04/16/voices-of-defiance-womens-struggle-for-freedom-in-the-face-of-oppression/  If you want to find out more about how you can get involved in the Irish Campaign to End Gender Apartheid contact Robbyn Swan by email: swanrobbyn@yahoo.co.uk.

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Tayab Ali, Director of the International Centre of Justice for Palestinians (ICJP), to discuss the organisation's critical work in response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the Occupied Territories. The conversation explores ICJP’s efforts and introduces Global 195, a new initiative aiming to coordinate legal interventions across multiple jurisdictions to hold those responsible for international crimes accountable. Tayab, also a partner and Head of International Law at the renowned London firm Bindmans LLP, shares his inspiring journey in law and activism. If you've ever found yourself deciding between a career in politics or law, listen in to this episode!   Tayab Ali, Director at International Centre of Justice for Palestinians. Tayab is an internationally recognised and highly respected Solicitor Advocate. His practice encompasses criminal and civil/public law in both the UK and international jurisdictions. He is a partner and Head of International Law at leading and award-winning London law firm Bindmans LLP. As a lawyer, Tayab’s work and case profiles have consistently been recognised by the principal Legal Directories which have ranked him as a leading lawyer in multiple practice areas. Chambers & Partners described him as “an irresistible force – he’s fearless and he always gets the right results for his clients”. He is rated as a Super Lawyer by Thompson Reuters and recognised in the field of Civil Liberties by The Legal 500.   Find out more about Global 195 https://www.icjpalestine.com/2025/03/18/global-195-launched/ Find out more about the ICJP https://www.icjpalestine.com/

Host Sarah Henry is joined by Partner Solicitor Nusrat Uddin, Head of the Public Law and Human Rights department at Wilsons Solicitors. In this episode, Nusrat shares insights into her work, with a focus on modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking. She discusses several groundbreaking cases she has worked on, as well as her involvement in Business and Human Rights cases, particularly those addressing forced labour within supply chains. Nusrat Uddin specialises in public law and human rights, with a particular focus on modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking. She brings cases against central and local government bodies for failing their duties, as well as claims against those who have exploited their workers. In 2023 she was awarded Public Law Lawyer of the Year in the Legal Aid Lawyer of the year awards. Nusrat also specialises in Business and Human Rights work. She has provided evidence for several US investigations into complaints against companies, from the fashion industry through to rubber gloves. US authorities have banned products from entering the US where indicators of forced labour in supply chains have been found. She believes the UK’s approach is far weaker and is critical of the Modern Slavery Act’s approach. Nusrat’s team have pioneered the first case against the UK authorities in relation to forced labour in their own supply chains, which settled with the government conceding and agreeing to improve their due diligence. The case was covered widely in the media and Nusrat was interviewed by Channel 4 News which can be seen here. She is currently building a second case in relation to the government’s due diligence of Uyghur made products in their supply chain. Nusrat was instructed in the key Supreme Court case of Wong v Basfar 2022 dealing with diplomatic immunity in trafficking civil claims. The Supreme Court established for the first time worldwide, a current diplomat is not protected from claims of human trafficking. The judgment was groundbreaking with global political implications. Nusrat was presented with the 2022 Anti-Slavery Day Award for Outstanding Contribution to Reducing Vulnerabilities, in Parliament, for her work on this case. Nusrat has a particular focus on improving state support for victims of trafficking and modern slavery. Last year she was instructed in the lead case, K and AM v SSHD [2018] EWHC 2951 (Admin), challenging the cuts by the Home Office to subsistence monies paid to support victims. The High Court found the cuts to be unlawful, resulting in victim support being reinstated to the full amount, and rebates being paid of around £1 million. She often advocates for safeguarding support and accommodation for victims who are facing homelessness and risks of further exploitation. Nusrat was profiled as Lawyer in the News in the Law Society Gazette for the successful case. Nusrat was also awarded a Research Fellowship by the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust to compare the UK’s models of support to those in the US and Europe, for victims of trafficking and modern slavery who are involved with criminal prosecutions against their traffickers. She presented her research findings at the end of last year and made recommendations to improve the UK’s systems. The research has been shared widely, including by Anti-Slavery International and endorsed by Luis deBaca who was the US ambassador for trafficking. She also gave oral evidence in Parliament to the Home Affairs Select Committee for their Inquiry into Modern Slavery in 2019. She outlined key issues for victims in relation to support services, immigration and the criminal justice system; particularly highlighting problems of victims being wrongfully criminalised by the police and immigration systems, instead of being correctly identified and protected. Nusrat is also currently instructed in a significant challenge to police policies in relation to this issue. In recognition of her work in this field, Nusrat wa

A short reminder of the Activist Lawyer Book Club with registration details are discussed in today’s episode.  The next Book Club Meeting features ‘The Power in the People, Not the People in Power,’ by Michael Mansfield KC! Tune in to find out more.

In this episode, Sarah interviews Dr. Gearóid Ó Cuinn, Director of the Global Legal Action Network (GLAN), to explore the organisation's innovative cross-border legal actions. They discuss key initiatives, including climate justice cases and GLAN’s recent legal challenge against the UK government over its ongoing weapons exports to Israel. Tune in for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation about international law in action and gain valuable insights into how to get involved in global human rights efforts. Link to GLAN: https://www.glanlaw.org/   About Dr Gearóid Ó Cuinn:  Gearóid is the founding director of the Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) where he is responsible for GLAN's legal actions and strategic growth. He is an adjunct lecturer at the Irish Centre for Human Rights and formerly lectured at Lancaster University Law School and was a visiting fellow at the Transnational Law Institute at Kings College London. Gearóid was educated at the National University of Ireland, Galway (LLB), University of Nottingham (LLM) where he also completed his doctorate which was funded by the Wellcome Trust. His academic research focuses on public international law, human rights and public health governance. Gearóid has active links with the legal profession and is interested in new avenues in clinical legal education, especially within public international law and the use of technologies in pro bono legal work.

In this special episode, our host and co-founder, Sarah Henry, takes the hot seat, interviewed by solicitor and fellow co-founder, Jonathan McKeown. We’ll reflect on the podcast’s journey so far, what we've accomplished, and our goals for the future of the Activist Lawyer community. Are there any favourite episodes you’d like to highlight? Let us know! Thank you to all of our listeners, podcast and blog contributors.  We truly value your time and your energy!

We kick off the New Year and the new season of the Activist Lawyer podcast with an interview featuring family law expert Anne Marie Featherstone. Anne Marie, a solicitor at Rafferty and Co Solicitors in Newry, shares insights into her legal career and her journey to specialising in all areas of family law. In this important conversation, Anne Marie and Sarah delve into the legal system's response to domestic violence. This discussion is particularly timely, given the alarming number of women who have lost their lives due to violence in the UK, and specifically in Northern Ireland, over the past year and beyond. Anne Marie Featherstone is an experienced family law practitioner who works in Rafferty and Co Solicitors in Newry, County Down.  Her experience includes working on the law society for Northern Ireland Children Order Panel, working on the Court Children Guardian panel and on The Hague Convention panel for the abduction of children.  Anne Marie has a Masters in Human Rights and Criminal Justice where she focused her dissertation focusing on children’s rights in the youth court.  Anne Marie has great familiarity with the courts in Northern Ireland and the needs and assistance required for those who find themselves seeking support and guidance in the family law arena to include the area of domestic violence.  Anne Marie has been involved in a number of reported cases including McG v McG (2002) NIFam10 and in one of the recent post office Horizon cases in the Court of Appeal (2023).  Trigger Warning: This podcast episode discusses sensitive topics, including domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs help and support in relation to domestic violence, please see the following links: 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline (NI) https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/contacts/24-hour-domestic-and-sexual-abuse-helpline Safe Ireland (ROI) https://www.safeireland.ie/get-help/where-to-find-help/ Refuge (UK) https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/ Police UK https://www.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse/support-organisations/

In today’s episode, we are joined by renowned solicitor Michael Madden from Madden Finucane Solicitors in Belfast. Michael takes us through his journey into law, beginning as a junior legal assistant on landmark legacy cases such as Bloody Sunday, and evolving the firm into one of the most respected names in human rights and criminal justice. Sarah and Michael also discuss the recent UK government announcement of a public inquiry into the murder of solicitor Pat Finucane as well as Michael's role in representing NI sub-postmasters wrongfully convicted in the infamous Post Office Scandal, widely regarded as one of the UK’s most significant miscarriages of justice.  Michael Madden graduated in Law from Queen’s University Belfast in 2002, was admitted as a Solicitor in 2006, and qualified as a Solicitor-Advocate in 2009. He previously worked for a respected London criminal firm where he completed his training contract.   About Michael Madden is a qualified solicitor-advocate specialising in criminal law. He represents clients throughout each stage of the criminal justice system, from clients under arrest in police stations, through to the Magistrates’ Court, Crown Court, High Court, and the Court of Appeal. He also regularly represents prisoners before the Parole Commissioners of Northern Ireland. Michael also acts as a solicitor-advocate for clients detained under the Mental Health Order before the Mental Health Review Tribunal. He has a special interest in Human Rights Law. Michael has attended the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in New York as part of a human rights campaign team concerning the independence of lawyers, highlighting the murder of Pat Finucane in particular. Notable cases: NI Court of Appeal • R v Alan McLaughlin First Post Office / Horizon scandal case in Northern Ireland to have convictions overturned in 2022. • R v James Alexander Smith First referral in NI from the CCRC regarding joint enterprise for murder cases in 2022. • DPP Ref (Number 5 of 2019) Harrington Legen Jack Guideline sentencing case in NI for fraud and theft where the offender is in a position of trust. It also gave guidelines for the appropriate remedy where a court has found there has been a breach of the right to have a criminal hearing within a reasonable time. • R v Gerard Connors [2011] NICC 35 Successful application to reduce the tariff length of a life sentence for murder. • EM Successful application to overturn an extradition order to Germany in 2015. Other notable cases • Inga Maria Hauser murder Represented man arrested for murder but received a “no prosecution” decision from the PPS in 2020. • PPS v GK Represented man in the Magistrates’ Court accused of being a “paedophile hunter” who received a non-custodial sentence in 2019. • R v BM Represented man in Belfast Crown Court who received a non-custodial sentence in 2016 for offences concerning bomb hoaxes and threats made to various individuals and airports in the USA and other countries. • PPS v TH Represented man accused of possessing a large amount of semtex acquitted in 2014. • R v FC Represented man accused of “sex slave ring” at Belfast Crown acquitted in 2012.

In this episode, Sarah is joined by Katie de Kauwe, a senior lawyer with Friends of the Earth, to discuss the vital role of legal actions in holding the UK government accountable for its climate obligations. They explore significant cases, some of which have disrupted the fossil fuel industry, including the Horse Hill (Finch) case which reached the UK Supreme Court, High Court challenges over the government's inadequate climate plans, and other important litigation.  Katie discusses how lawyers collaborate with grassroots activists to achieve long-term societal change, young climate change activists and the relationship between climate change and gender inequality. The conversation also touches on the rise of 'persons unknown' injunctions, which pose a serious threat to democracy and the right to protest. Friends of the Earth has taken action on 'anti-protest' injunctions, even bringing cases before the European Court of Human Rights. Finally, Katie provides practical advice for those interested in pursuing a career as a climate justice lawyer. Not to be missed!   Katie de Kauwe specialises in environmental judicial review, and also has expertise in cases concerning the right to protest. Katie was listed in the ENDS Power List 2023 and 2024 of the UK’s 100 most influential environmental professionals, and was ranked in the Lawyer Hot 100 for 2023.  Katie led Friends of the Earth’s successful Climate Change Act challenges to the Government’s economy-wide decarbonisation plans, first the Net Zero Strategy, and then the Carbon Budget Delivery Plan which replaced it. She has worked on several critical challenges to fossil fuel projects. These include Friends of the Earth’s intervention in the landmark Finch appeal regarding oil drilling in Surrey, where the Supreme Court ruled in June 2024 that end-use emissions from fossil fuel projects must be included in the environmental impact assessment. Katie also worked on the organisation’s successful challenge to the grant of planning permission for a coal mine in Whitehaven, which was strengthened by Finch and ultimately succeeded on all grounds in September 2024, including those aspects relating to substitution, international impacts and carbon offsetting. Katie leads on Friends of the Earth’s casework on civil liberties, including its live application to the European Court of Human Rights, challenging the use of ‘anti-protest’ persons unknown injunctions.  Katie holds a degree in Biology BSc (1st Class Honours) and converted to law through a Masters in Law.  [Katie has previously worked in criminal defence. She completed her training contract in private practice, and worked in civil litigation, before joining Friends of the Earth in 2018. She was previously involved in the Colombia Caravana, and has participated in two human rights delegations to Colombia. Katie is half-Sri Lankan, and strongly believes in the importance of addressing the deficit in representation of people of colour in both the legal profession and the environmental movement. For cases mentioned on today’s episode as well as the legal work undertaken by Friends of the Earth (UK), read more here.

As part of our mini-series on Becoming an Activist Lawyer, host Sarah Henry discusses highlights from our guest contributors when asked to comment on the relationship between Activism and the Law.

Megan Sethuraman is currently studying a Master’s in International Peace Studies at Trinity College Dublin. She joins Sarah on the podcast to discuss her recent visit to Palestine as a human rights monitor.  Megan shares her observations and discusses how anyone can get involved in advocacy and support for communities across the region who are suffering because of the escalating conflict. Megan also shares how her experience impacted her decision to pursue a career in human rights.

In Episode 94, host Sarah interviews immigration expert, Dr. Sue Conlan about the state of immigration in Ireland and the UK. The conversation offers an exploration of various pressing issues, including the legal landscape, the impact of political decisions, and the rising tide of xenophobia in both regions. The conversation touches on pivotal moments such as Brexit, which has reshaped the immigration framework, leading to increased complexities and challenges for migrants. Dr. Sue Conlan has specialised exclusively in the field of international migration, asylum and human rights since July 1987 in both the voluntary sector and legal aid firms. Her experience includes legal casework, research, training, political advocacy, consultancy, media and public speaking on migration and asylum issues and wider human rights issues. Sue's research includes the link between immigration control and public funds in the UK, people smuggling and migration, and asylum policy and practice in the UK and Ireland. In July 2020, Sue set up has TACTIC Immigration and Asylum CIC to provide training to organisations supporting people seeking asylum or in the UK illegally.

Join award-winning barrister Oscar Davies and host Sarah Henry as they discuss Oscar's journey to their practice at Garden Court Chambers. Oscar shares personal insights into becoming a barrister and offers practical advice for aspiring legal professionals. They also address the lack of legal protections for trans and non-binary individuals, along with Oscar's upcoming book on non-binary recognition, promoting understanding and openness towards the challenges faced by the non-binary community.  Oscar is recognised as the first publicly acknowledged non-binary barrister in the UK and has been a trailblazer in representing trans and non-binary clients across various civil and public law sectors. Oscar’s work as a barrister is a gateway to their activism in trans issues and climate related strategic litigation. Their impressive accolades include winning 'LGBTQ+: Champion of the Year’ at the Legal 500 ESG Awards 2024 and being nominated for 'DE&I: Rising Star of the Year' at the same awards. Oscar was also nominated as one of the ‘Top 10 Outstanding Contributions to LGBT+ Life’ by the British LGBT Awards 2022 and was a finalist in this year’s Advocate's awards category Young Pro Bono Barrister of the Year'. Oscar is ranked as a Tier 1 ‘Rising Star’ in the Legal 500 and was recently featured by Evening Standard Magazine as one of the Unsung Heroes of the LGBTQ+ community. Beyond their courtroom successes, Oscar is currently writing a book on non-binary recognition, exploring how the law can better reflect and dismantle stigmas around gender/sex binary.

Sarah is joined by a distinguished panel contributing to the conversation on a timely and critical issue: the campaign to recognize Gender Apartheid as a crime against humanity.    'United Against Gender Apartheid,' is discussed in detail by renowned journalist, author and campaigner, Robbyn Swan, Afghan lawyer and campaigner Mahbooba Faiz and Mahya Ostovar, a professor and long-time activist for women’s rights in Iran.   The podcast highlights the worsening situation in Afghanistan and Iran, where women are subjected to systemic repression under legal frameworks designed to erase them from public life. The Taliban’s policies in Afghanistan and Iran’s Morality Police are cited as examples of these oppressive structures.  This conversation is not just a legal debate—it’s a vital exploration of women's rights and the global movement to protect them. Be sure to download the episode and join the discussion!  #unitedagainstgenderapartheid   Mahbooba Faiz is a dedicated feminist and women’s rights activist with over six years of experience in advocating for gender equality. Her commitment to these causes intensified after escaping Afghanistan in 2021, following the Taliban's takeover and their subsequent restrictions on women's freedoms.   Mahbooba is a two-time refugee, having first escaped Afghanistan in late 1996 when the Taliban took control of Kabul. During this time, she witnessed the harsh treatment of people, particularly women, including her mother. She is also a war victim, having lost her father during the Russian occupation of Afghanistan.   In Ireland, Mahbooba has been an outspoken advocate, frequently appearing in the media to raise awareness about the plight of women under oppressive regimes, particularly in Afghanistan. She has worked to inform Irish society and the broader international community about the severe impact of Islamic fundamentalism on women's lives.   Mahbooba holds a bachelor’s degree in law and has earned two master’s degrees in Law and International Studies, one from Afghanistan and one from the Republic of Ireland.   She is married and has one child, balancing her family life with her passionate commitment to promoting women’s rights and gender equality.  Mahya Ostovar is a women's rights activist and an assistant professor in Business Information Systems at University of Galway, Ireland. During her PhD studies in France, her research focused on campaigns against mandatory hijab in Iran—such as “My Stealthy Freedom” and “White Wednesdays.”   Mahya was also active in the “#LetUsTalk” campaign, which demands the Western feminists and progressives to not silence the criticism of Islam, especially by Middle Eastern women, and the “#No2Hijab campaign,” which calls on Iranian women not to wear the headscarf in Iranian public.   Her primary focus in all these activities has been the equality of women and their rights over their bodies. Robbyn Swan is a well-known American journalist and author. Her book, The Eleventh Day: The Full Story of 9/11 and Osama Bin Laden, co-authored with her husband Anthony Summers, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History. Robbyn has been a strong advocate for ending gender apartheid. Working alongside Mahbooba and Mahya, she has lobbied Irish representatives and organizations to keep the issue of women's rights under oppressive regimes on the political agenda.   Her involvement with Mahbooba and Mahya highlights her dedication to global women’s rights and the push for international recognition and action against gender-based oppression.  Contact details:   Robbyn Swan:  swanrobbyn@yahoo.co.uk for more on #UnitedAgainstGenderApartheid.  For more information on global campaigns to End Gender Apartheid, see the links below:   End Gender Apartheid Today: https://endgenderapartheid.today/   Instagram   @endgenderapartheid.today   @unitedagainstgenderapartheid

Join us on the latest episode of the Activist Lawyer podcast as our former co-host, Jack McClelland, calls into the studio to share his travel adventures and offer insights into navigating a career in law. If you’re feeling uncertain about your career path, especially in human rights law, this episode is for you! Sarah and Jack will also revisit some standout episodes featuring recent guests who offer valuable advice for those contemplating a career in human rights. Whether you’re exploring your options or looking for inspiration, this discussion promises to be both informative and inspiring. Don’t miss out—tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that could help shape your future!

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined by Daniel Machover from Hickman & Rose, one of the UK’s leading solicitors in inquests, public inquiry work, complex civil litigation, and human rights cases. Daniel has represented clients in high-profile cases, including the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, the Azelle Rodney Inquiry, and prisoners at Wormwood Scrubs Prison. Recently, he has also represented the family of Kelso Cochrane in uncovering the truth behind what has been called 'Britain’s first racist murder,' all of which is discussed in this episode. Daniel shares his fascinating journey into the legal profession, inspired by his family’s experience at the hands of Israeli authorities as anti-Zionist Israelis speaking out against the occupation of Palestine. He later co-founded Lawyers for Palestinian Human Rights and shares his thoughts on recent rulings by the ICJ regarding Israel, as well as his efforts to issue arrest warrants under universal jurisdiction, including a warrant for the arrest of a former senior Israeli army officer for alleged war crimes. About Daniel   Daniel Machover is partner and Head of Civil Litigation with Hickman & Rose law firm based in London. Daniel’s pioneering human rights work has seen him bring cases to the Court of Appeal, Supreme Court and the European Court of Human Rights. His long experience representing clients in civil claims arising from the criminal justice system enables him to offer specialist representation to both claimants and defendant in civil fraud cases and other civil disputes with a connection to criminal law. Daniel is a trustee of the charity INQUEST which provides a specialist, comprehensive advice service to bereaved people on contentious deaths and their investigation, having previously served as Chair between 2010 and 2021. He is also a trustee of Legal Action Worldwide, which helps gain access to justice for those who need it most in fragile and conflict-affected states.

Sarah is joined by barrister Franck Magennis from Garden Court Chambers.  Franck discusses UK asylum cases involving Palestinian applicants, his time working with Al-Haq human rights organisation as well as a swell in employment cases involving dismissals around a person’s activity in relation to what is happening in Palestine.  This is an interesting discussion on what could be described as a freedom of speech crisis. Don’t miss an excellent and encouraging discussion about any potential conflict or tension that comes with entering the legal profession while holding strong political beliefs and being part of an active movement.  A candid and insightful episode not to be missed! About Franck Magennis  Franck Magennis was born in Dublin and raised in the six counties, Franck Magennis is a barrister called to the bar of England & Wales in 2016. He practises in public, civil and criminal defence. His work centres on challenging rights breaches by the British and other states, employers and landlords. He has expertise in legal claims relating to various aspects of the Palestinian struggle against "Israeli" colonialism, apartheid and genocide."

We pick up our discussion on legal developments impacting Palestine as we are joined by Miranda Cleland in Washington DC. As advocacy officer with Defense for Children International – Palestine (DCI-P), Miranda touches on the significance of the case against the Biden Administration for complicity in genocide. The case, which was dismissed, was taken by the Center for Constitutional Rights who filed a lawsuit on behalf of DCI-P and other Palestinian human rights groups as well as Palestinian and US citizens with relatives in Gaza.  The action itself was unprecedented and was not dismissed on its merits but because of technical grounds. Listen to find out more! We talk about the harrowing testimony Miranda and her colleagues receive from field researchers on the ground in Gaza and the West Bank as well Netanyahu’s address before congress as well as how the legal community and individuals can provide more support when it comes to holding Israel accountable.   Miranda Cleland is an advocacy officer at Defense for Children International - Palestine and lives in Washington, D.C., where she leads the No Way to Treat a Child campaign and advocates for the human rights of Palestinian children. Miranda is a writer, speaker, facilitator, and campaigner with expertise in children's rights, the Israeli military detention system, and Israeli military killings of Palestinian children. She holds a bachelor's with honors from American University in International Studies and Arabic language and has taken additional coursework in international law and the protection of children in armed conflict.

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined by Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC as she discusses her career in law, her role as a judge at the Old Bailey as well as her fascinating new book, ‘Rough Justice.’ Until March 2022 Her Honour Wendy Joseph QC was a judge at the Old Bailey, sitting on criminal cases, trying mainly allegations of murder and other homicide. She read English and Law at Cambridge, was called to the Bar by Gray's Inn in 1975, became a QC in 1998 and sat as a full-time judge from 2007 to 2022. When she moved to the Old Bailey in 2012 she was the only woman amongst sixteen judges, and only the third woman ever to hold a permanent position there. She was also a Diversity and Community Relations Judge, working to promote understanding between the judiciary and many different sectors of our community, particularly those from less privileged and minority groups. She mentors young people, from a variety of backgrounds, who hope for a career in law and has a special interest in helping women.

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined by Marc Willers KC who specialises in environmental law and climate justice, planning law, administrative and public law, civil liberties, human rights and discrimination law, and Gypsy, Traveller and Roma law.   Marc shares a number of climate justice success stories including the ground-breaking decision in KlimaSeniorinnen v Switzerland (ECtHR) as well as Finch (on behalf of the Weald Action Group) against Surrey County Council!   Marc is recommended in the Chambers UK Bar Guide and the Legal 500 in planning law, environmental law, civil liberties and human rights. He is also a member of the Irish Bar, and he is registered with the Bar Council for public access work and assists private clients in all the areas of his expertise.Marc won the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Award in 2011 and he was Joint Head of Garden Court Chambers between 2016 - 2020. He is also the co-editor of Gypsy and Traveller Law (3rd edition, 2020 LAG).

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined by traveller activist and aspiring barrister, Martin McDonagh. Martin is currently furthering his career in law through the University of Ulster, Access to Justice LLM hoping to work in human rights and social justice. He recently set up Northern Ireland’s first Traveller-led support group. Martin touches on some of the challenges faced by the Irish Traveller community and discusses his determination to champion social change and amplify marginalised voices through the law and his activism. **TW  - This episode touches on issues of suicide and mental health.  For support please follow the links below:   Northern Ireland: https://zerosuicidealliance.com/urgent-help/helplines-and-support-northern-ireland Ireland: https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/4/mental-health-services/nosp/help/ UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/helping-someone-else/supporting-someone-who-feels-suicidal/useful-contacts/

In this week's episode, our host, Sarah Henry, shares the latest updates to our website, our call for blog submissions, the launch of our brand-new newsletter, and our exciting new book club.  Subscribe to our newsletter here: https://ow.ly/IaFJ50SaZ94

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined in the studio by Immigration Solicitor, Úna Boyd who works with the Committee on the Administration of Justice (CAJ).  CAJ is an independent human rights organisation based in Belfast and Úna discusses the role of the organisation in promoting justice and protecting rights.  She shares insights into her work centring around post-Brexit legislative changes, the Rwanda Scheme, the ECHR, citizens’ rights, racial profiling and the Common Travel Area.    Úna Boyd is an immigration law specialist. She studied law at Queens University Belfast and has a Master’s in Human Rights Law from the Irish Centre for Human Rights. Úna is an experienced immigration solicitor and former chair of the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s Immigration Practitioners’ Group.

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined by Harriet Wistrich who is the founder and director of the Centre for Women's Justice. Harriet previously worked as a solicitor with renowned civil liberties firm Birnberg Pierce for many years.Harriet talks about her work,  primarily focusing on violence against women cases including the case of Emma Humphreys and Sally Challen as well as victims of serial rapist, John Worboys. Harriet’s new book, Sister in Law provides us with a fantastic in-depth look into Harriet’s legal career touched on in today’s recording.Harriet’s book features as part of the Activist Lawyer Book Club and is available to purchase now!   Harriet is the founder and director of the Centre for Women’s Justice and a solicitor of 25 years experienced who worked for many years with renowned civil liberties firm, Birnberg Peirce Ltd. She is the winner of the Liberty Human Rights Lawyer of the Year award 2014, Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year 2018 for public law and Law Society Gazette personality of the year 2019.  She has acted in many high-profile cases around violence against women including on behalf of women who challenged the police and parole board in the John Worboys case, women deceived in relationships by undercover police officers and on behalf of women appealing murder convictions for killing abusive partners, most recently Sally Challen. She is also founder member of the campaign group, Justice for Women and trustee of the charity, the Emma Humphreys Memorial Prize.  Among her notable cases are: acting for eight women who brought claims against the metropolitan police arising from being deceived in relationships with undercover police officers – recently resulting in an unprecedented apology and substantial compensation payments Dil & Ors v Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis [2014] EWHC 2184 (QB) (02 July 2014) Acting for a vulnerable constituent of former Lib Dem member of parliament, Mike Hancock, who held him to account over sexually inappropriate conduct. acting for two rape victims of the notorious taxi driver John Woboys, and establishing the precedent at Court of Appeal level whereby the police failure to investigate was held to be a violation of Article 3 ECHR Commissioner of the Police for the Metropolis v DSD and NBV and Alio Koraou v Chief Constable of Manchester [2015] EWCA Civ 646. acting for two women detained at Yarl’s Wood who alleged they were sexually abused by detention centre employees acting for a victim of sex trafficking who was unlawfully removed to her home country Moldova where she was re-trafficked acting in inquest proceedings for the father of Eleanor de Freitas who killed herself on the eve of a trial where she was accused of perverting the course of justice by allegedly making a false allegation of rape acting for the family of Jean Charles de Menezes who was shot dead by Metropolitan police in July 2005 acting for a number of men in claims arising from Britain’s complicity in their rendition and torture at Guantanamo Bay. acting for a number of women in successful appeals against their murder convictions including, Stacey Hyde, Christine Devaney, Diane Butler, Kirsty Scamp and Emma Humphreys

Sarah revisits an interview with solicitor Ciaran Moynagh from Phoenix Law in Belfast.  Ciaran talks about how he became a lawyer specialising in human rights, equality, family law and specialist criminal defence.  Listeners might be familiar with some of Ciaran’s high-profile cases including Lee v Asher's Bakery Company (the ‘gay cake’ case) as well as his work around advancing same sex marriage and transgender rights in Northern Ireland.  Ciaran Moynagh is an experienced Solicitor Advocate with a diverse caseload that points to his passion for human rights & equality, family & matrimonial law and specialist criminal defence.  Ciaran is a multi-award-winning solicitor with a reputation for both challenging public bodies and the decisions they make, and also representing the interests of his clients in family courts and criminal trials. Ciaran acted in the same sex marriage legal challenge known as Petition X and also advised on the legislation ultimately used to introduce same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland. As part of the Love Equality Consortium he was instrumental in the campaign for equal marriage including talks with NI’s political leaders.  He represented the couple, Laura Lacole and Eunan O’Kane in the legal challenge which secured the right for couples in Northern Ireland to register humanist marriages. Other successful judicial reviews resulted in greater protection of the privacy of transgender people in the UK and access to fertility treatment for same sex couples. Ciaran also acts for a number of charities mainly around potential interventions into legal challenges. He was instructed by the AIRE Centre in an immigration case before the European Court of Justice as well as for the Royal College of Midwives in JR 76 which challenged the prosecution of a mother for purchasing abortion pills online. More recently he has advised and assisted with an application by Mr Lee to the European Court of Human Rights in the internationally debated matter of Lee -v- Asher’s Bakery, the so-called “gay cake” case. Ciaran also has a passion for family and matrimonial law and regularly appears before Family Courts at all tiers. He is the Northern Ireland representative of the UK & Ireland LGBT Family Law Institute as well as a member of the Northern Ireland Children Order Panel.  In 2021 he was made a Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers as well as being added to the solicitor panel for the Northern Ireland Guardian Ad Litem Agency. In his family work, Ciaran deals with private law contact / residence disputes that include complex issues such as emotional abuse commonly called parent alienation. He also regularly deals with public law family matters that have social services involved due to allegations of abuse, neglect or non-accidental injury. Ciaran has specialist knowledge and expertise on same sex family’s creation and representation. Ciaran is one of the few lawyers in NI giving expert advice on both domestic and international surrogacy arrangements. In a criminal context, Ciaran has been a long-standing member of the Belfast duty solicitor scheme. He has particular expertise in cases involving online legal issues, for example, social media harassment, revenge porn and so-called ‘paedophile hunters’ stings. Ciaran retains a criminal defence caseload exclusively dealing with complex fraud, terrorism and sexual offences providing robust representation right from police station right through to the Crown Court.

Sarah is joined in the studio by solicitor Enda McGarrity who works with law firm P.A. Duffy & Co Solicitors. Enda talks about his work on the UK Covid-19 Inquiry and environmental actions arising because of the ecological disaster occurring in Northern Ireland’s Lough Neagh.    Enda joined PA Duffy & Company as a paralegal in 2018 having graduated from Queens University Belfast with honours. After completing his apprenticeship with PA Duffy and Company Enda qualified as a solicitor and is now leading the Human Rights and Public law department within the firm. Enda’s caseload consists of Public Inquiries, Inquests, Judicial review and complex litigation against State agencies including wrongful death claims and environmental actions. He is currently instructed by Northern Ireland Bereaved Families for Justice (NICBFFJ) in the ongoing UK Covid-19 Inquiry which is considered to be the largest public inquiry in UK history. In addition, Enda is instructed by bereaved families in the Republic of Ireland to seek a public inquiry to investigate the State's handling of Covid-19 as well as acting in multiple ongoing wrongful death actions in respect of deaths related to major outbreaks of Covid-19 in nursing homes. Enda has a passion for helping the most vulnerable people in society to seek justice. His work with bereaved families, the elderly and disabled reflects his commitment to pursuing answers and accountability for those who are unable to advocate for themselves. He also has a keen interest in environmental issues and is instructed by various individuals and groups seeking to address damage caused to the environment by pollution, including cases in relation to the ongoing blue green algae crisis in Lough Neagh. During his training Enda took part in a 5-week human rights internship in Cape Town, South Africa where he provided legal assistance to refugees and members of the LGBTQI community who were being subjected to discrimination. He continues to carry these values in his current workload and regularly accepts instructions on pro bono cases which have a public interest dimension. Enda is a keen Gaelic footballer, he has represented County Tyrone at Minor level and continues to play for his club Galbally Pearses GAC. Enda has received an Ulster Colleges All-star award, A Gaelic Life All-star award and was a member of the Elite Athlete Programme at Queens University Belfast. He is also an active member of a charity called St Ciaran’s Peregrini who provide aid to a small town in Zambia and he has visited Zambia on four occasions to assist on various community and education projects.

In this episode Sarah meets Leslie Thomas KC with Garden Court Chambers and Professor of Law at Gresham College. We discuss some of Leslie’s impressive portfolio of work as a barrister taking on the state on behalf of his clients through inquests and public inquiries representing many bereaved families as a result of police brutality and deaths in custody. Leslie has expertise across a wide range of civil wrongs, civil litigation and human rights and has worked on the Hillsborough Inquiry, Covid-19 Inquiry as well as representing residents and bereaved family members of the Grenfell Tower fire.  Do Right and Fear No One – A life Dedicated to Fighting for Justice is the title of Leslie’s thoughtful and fascinating book detailing his career and the challenges he faced as a black lawyer starting off his career in 1980’s London.  We have recommended this book as part of our Activist Lawyer Book Club.   Leslie is a leading expert in claims against the police and other public authorities, and claims against corporate bodies, with expertise across the full spectrums of civil wrongs, civil litigation, human rights, data and privacy claims. He is an expert in all aspects of inquests and public inquiries, having represented many bereaved families, in particular where there has been abuse of state or corporate power. Leslie acts for claimants in judicial review proceedings and other public law proceedings. He regularly acts for clients in the Caribbean region on constitutional law challenges. He has represented claimants in clinical negligence and personal injury claims for the last 20 years. Leslie is ranked in Band 1 in Chambers & Partners and Tier 1 in Legal 500 for Inquests & Public Inquiries and Police Law (Claimant). He is also ranked by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 in Civil Liberties & Human Rights. Leslie is currently Professor of Law at Gresham College delivering his lecture series Hard Choices: The Law's Struggle with Ethical Dilemmas

As part of our series focusing on the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Palestine, Sarah is joined by Khaled Quzmar, human rights lawyer and General Director of Defense for Children International – Palestine (DCI-P).  The organisation has been working to promote and protect the human rights of Palestinian children for decades.  Khaled talks about the extreme challenges in documenting current violations of international law in respect of children due to the sheer volume of cases as a result of the ongoing aggression on the region by Israeli forces.    Khaled Quzmar joined DCI- P in 1995 as a lawyer representing Palestinian children in Israeli military courts. He rose through the ranks to become administrative and legal affairs director.  Khaled specializes in issues of juvenile justice and grave violations against children during armed conflict. He earned a Master of Laws degree in international human rights law from the Irish Center for Human Rights at the National University of Ireland Galway.

Today’s episode features Executive Director of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, Liam Herrick.  Liam and Sarah discuss the history of the ICCL and its place in the development of human rights and social justice, not only in Ireland, but globally.  They look at the ‘Enforce’ unit within the ICCL which aims to challenge the ‘tech threat’ posed to democracy and human rights.  Liam Herrick is the Executive Director of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties. Liam was appointed in November 2016. Prior to his appointment, he was the Advisor to President Michael D. Higgins. Liam was Executive Director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) between 2007 and 2014. He has also worked as the first Head of Legislation and Policy at the former Irish Human Rights Commission, with the Law Reform Commission and at the Department of Foreign Affairs. He is a former member of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) and the Minister for Justice and Equality’s Strategic Review Group on Penal Policy. Liam is a sought-after commentator and appears regularly before parliamentary committees and in the media.   Liam says “I have worked in human rights for most of the last 20 years. I believe that fighting for human rights protections in law and in policy can make a real difference to peoples’ lives and to the type of society we live in. “

To mark International Women’s Day 2024  we are joined by Dr Maebh Harding and Professor Aoife O’Donoghue to discuss the network Doing Feminist Legal Work. DFLW connects legal scholars across Ireland, Northern Ireland and Britain addressing emerging issues of gender and law. This is an exciting and innovative project and you can find out how you can become involved in the network.  We also discuss the meaning of adapting a ‘feminist approach’ to work and to teaching as well as the position of western feminism in the context of the ongoing crisis in Palestine. Professor Aoife O’Donoghue of Queen’s University Law School, works extensively on projects relating to utopia, feminism and international law and tyranny, in particular taking a law and humanities perspective that incorporates history, literature and theory.  Aoife was co-director of the Northern Ireland Feminist Judgements Project and is co-direct of the Feminist Constitutional Futures Project.  Dr Maebh Harding works at University College Dublin, Sutherland School of Law.  Dr Harding is Assistant professor in Family and Child Law at UCD and her research combines a critical feminist perspective with empirical, historical and doctrinal rigour to challenge legal regulation of family life.  She takes a particular interest, not only in law and gender but in how family justice systems actually work.  Her work has been widely citied and has significantly impacted policy and practice.

Continuing with our series focusing on events unfolding in Palestine we speak to Professor Shane Darcy, Nadeen Yousef and Ramez Hayek from the Irish Centre for Human Rights in the School of Law at University of Galway.   The panel discuss events subsequent to the ICJ ruling on provisional measures in the case of South Africa v. Israel in relation to the Genocide Convention, 1948.  We discuss the action of state parties to the Convention in light of the ruling, the validity of international legal institutions as well as touching on other important legal actions taken on both an international and domestic level in an effort to hold Israel and its allies accountable for their actions and contraventions of international law.  Professor Shane Darcy is the Deputy Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights in the School of Law at the University of Galway, where he teaches business and human rights, international humanitarian law and international criminal law. He is the author of Judges, Law and War; The Judicial Development of International Humanitarian Law (Cambridge University Press, 2014) and To Serve the Enemy: Informers, Collaborators and the Laws of Armed Conflict (Oxford University Press, 2019). He is a member of the Editorial Boards of the Business and Human Rights Journal, the Irish Yearbook of International Law and Criminal Law Forum. Nadeen Yousef, a Palestinian human rights advocate, and a full-time LLM student specializing in International Human Rights Law at the University of Galway. She has previously worked as an Advocacy Coordinator at several Palestinian civil society organizations including the Women's Centre for Legal Aid and Counselling, and the Palestinian Vision. Along her studies, Nadeen is currently working as a Research Assistant for the UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in the OPT, Francesca Albanese.  Ramez Hayek is a legal researcher from Palestine. He holds a dual-BA degree in International Law & Human Rights from Bard College in New York and Al-Quds University in Jerusalem, as well as an MA degree in Human Rights from Central European University in Vienna. He is currently pursuing an LLM in Peace Operations, Humanitarian Law, and Conflict at the Irish Centre for Human Rights in Galway. Professionally, he has worked with several Palestinian and international organizations, including UNICEF, PEN America, Amnesty International, the Swedish Development Aid Organization, etc. He is currently a member of the research team helping Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, with her upcoming thematic report, focusing on the question of genocide in the Gaza Strip.

This episode of Activist Lawyer sheds light on the horrific circumstances facing women in Afghanistan. As we approach International Women’s Day, we ask everyone to listen to this episode where our guest Maryam, explains what is happening in Afghanistan since the Taliban enforced their oppressive regime in August 2021. Maryam discusses education, employment, mental health and women in law. Afghan women and girls face a truly harrowing future if the international community does not act urgently and intervene.  Maryam is an activist lawyer and mental health advocate for women in Afghanistan. *Mistake in recording: Sarah notes the Taliban regime ran between 1996 and 2021 – it should be 2001

Sarah is joined by Dublin based solicitor Cristina Stamatescu to talk about her unique journey to becoming a human rights practitioner. Cristina discusses the importance of balancing her day-to-day role as managing solicitor with networking, pro-bono work and opportunities to develop and learn more about the law and making change happen outside of the office!

Human rights lawyer and law professor at Al-Quds University, Dr Munir Nuseibah shares his opinion on Israel before the ICJ, the importance of states joining South Africa's action under the Genocide Convention as well as activity (or lack thereof) at the ICC when it comes to prosecutions and accountability.

Sarah is joined by renowned women’s activist and co-founder of the Women’s Centre for Legal Aid and Counselling, Palestine, Soraida Hussein to discuss the impact of violence on women and child victims of the ongoing aggression in Gaza and the West Bank. For more on the film Soraida: A Woman of Palestine : https://genderandsecurity.org/projects-resources/filmography/soraida-woman-palestine Donate: Action Aid Gaza Appeal

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined by Tamara Tamimi. Tamara is a Palestinian born in Jerusalem. Tamara holds an MA degree in Human Rights Law from SOAS, University of London and is currently pursuing her PhD from Queen’s University Belfast in international law and the Palestine question. Tamara’s research activity focuses on settler colonialism, transformative justice, forcible displacement, gender equality, and aid effectiveness of overseas development assistance as part of policies of Western countries. Tamara has also published extensively in peer reviewed journals and edited collections on aforementioned subjects, including Development in Practice Journal, Al-Shabaka- Palestinian Policy Network, and with University of Gottingen, and Queen’s University Belfast.   Previous podcast https://lawpod.org/podcast/international-law-and-perceptions-of-justice-in-palestine/?fbclid=IwAR1f8ymrMJ3qtGO9_Ya4zEXsYDfJqHilHgvq_ZkY9DZdo_gUs6BnSp-Hlrw On genocide perpetrated in Gaza: Raz Segal, A Textbook Case of Genocide, Jewish Currents <https://jewishcurrents.org/a-textbook-case-of-genocide> Omer Bartov, What I Believe as a Historian of Genocide, New York Times <https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/10/opinion/israel-gaza-genocide-war.html> Center for Constitutional Rights, Israel's Unfolding Crime of Genocide of the Palestinian People & U.S. Failure to Prevent and Complicity in Genocide <https://ccrjustice.org/israel-s-unfolding-crime-genocide-palestinian-people-us-failure-prevent-and-complicity-genocide>   On settler colonialism, displacement, and dispossession of Palestinians: Tamara Tamimi, Ahmad Amara, Osama Risheq, Munir Nuseibah, Alice Panepinto, Brendan Browne, and Triestino Marinello “(Mis)using Legal Pluralism in the Occupied Palestinian Territory to Advance Dispossession of Palestinians: Israeli Policies against Palestinian Bedouins in the Eastern Jerusalem Periphery” in Noorhaidi Hasan and Irene Schneider (eds) in International Law between Translation and Pluralism: Examples from Germany, Palestine and Indonesia Edward Said, The Question of Palestine Edward Said, Out of Place: A Memoir  Eward Said, The Politics of Dispossession  Noam Chomsky and Ilan Pappe, On Palestine  Ilan Pappe, The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine Judith Butler, Jewishness and the Critique of Zionism Rashid Khalidi, The Hundred Years' War on Palestine: A History of Settler Colonialism and Resistance, 1917- 2017 Rashid Khalidi, Palestinian Identity: The Construction of Modern National Consciousness   On solidarity, mobilisation and accountability: Angela Davis, Freedom is a Constant Struggle: Ferguson, Palestine, and the Foundations of a Movement Ali Abunimah, The Battle for Justice in Palestine Audrea Lim (editor), The Case for Sanctions Against Israel

In this week's episode, Sarah speaks with Professor Donncha O’Connell, Established Professor of Law in the School of Law, University Galway.

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined by human rights solicitor and partner with Daly Khurshid Solicitors, Gary Daly. Gary discusses the effectiveness of activism and the law through his work on discrimination, immigration and social welfare and housing law as well as his time spent in Palestine, Calais and other locations where he provides voluntary legal support to vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers as well as human rights organisations.

Sarah is joined by employment law specialist Danielle Ayres of Primas Law.  Danielle shares her experience as a solicitor, juggling family life and supporting women facing maternity challenges and discrimination around pregnancy and related issues.   Danielle and Sarah highlight the importance of flexible working, managing menopause in the workplace as well as Danielle’s role in the fantastic organisation and campaign ‘Pregnant then Screwed.’ Follow the links below for more on Danielle’s work and the ‘Pregnant then Screwed’ Campaign. https://www.primaslaw.co.uk/team/danielle-ayres/ https://pregnantthenscrewed.com/

In this week's episode, our host, Sarah, is joined by solicitor of England & Wales and a California attorney, Honza Cervenka from law firm McAllister Olivarius.

Sarah speaks with solicitor Ciarán Mulholland from Mulholland Law about his extensive work on criminal justice matters. Ciarán discusses the criminal legal aid scheme in Ireland as well as challenges around policing, accessing justice and some interesting and extremely relevant cases he and his team are working on.   *TW – some cases mentioned in this podcast explore themes of violence which some listeners might find upsetting.   If you would like to find out more about the work and cases Ciarán discusses, you will see a list of articles below:    TACA – Extradition since Brexit;   https://www.politico.eu/article/ireland-poland-extradition-case-referred-to-europe-top-court-ecj/   https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/european-court-to-rule-in-november-on-post-brexit-extradition-requests   https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/supreme-court-agrees-to-hear-alleged-dissident-republicans-appeal-against-extradition-1424491.html   https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/10/03/seven-judge-supreme-court-hears-appeal-by-alleged-dissident-republican-against-extradition-to-uk/     Threats to Lawyers from Far-Right;   https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-66424582   https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2023/07/31/solicitor-representing-bereaved-mother-in-case-against-gemma-odoherty-increases-security-after-alleged-threats/     Dangerous Dog Act Constitutionality;   https://www.rte.ie/news/2022/0620/1305964-dog-attack/     McGlinchey Murders & ROI Legacy Litigation;   https://www.lmfm.ie/news/lmfm-news/louth-coroner-to-hand-over-documents-about-dominic-mad-dog-mcglinchey-inquest/   https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/billy-king-rat-wright-identified-30117958   https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/mcglinchey-family-want-answers-over-mothers-missing-murder-file/42359872.html                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       https://www.irishnews.com/news/northernirelandnews/2023/02/03/news/irish_government_urged_to_improve_legacy_after_concerns_raised_over_approach_over_dominic_mcglinchey_murder-3036054/   https://www.derrynow.com/news/derry-news/1258159/family-of-dominic-and-mary-mcglinchey-in-brussels-to-meet-with-european-parliament.html     Garda issues;   https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/10/07/garda-who-drunkenly-assaulted-and-racially-abused-taxi-driver-sued-in-high-court/   https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/judge-dismisses-case-against-man-stopped-at-covid-checkpoint-at-start-of-pandemic-1.4781691   https://www.noteworthy.ie/watching-the-watchdog-gsoc-investigation-6054964-May2023/   https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/gardai-involved-in-standoff-with-central-mental-hospital-staff-due-to-capacity-issues-1100276.html   https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/crime/anti-gay-preaching-row-solicitor-accuses-garda-of-bogus-prosecution-after-judge-dismisses-all-charges-against-northern-ireland-trio-3743745

Sarah is joined by solicitor Richard Port MBE who works in family law as a partner with George Green Solicitors in the West Midlands.  Richard specialises in domestic abuse cases and provides us with an excellent insight into his work and achievements in this complex and difficult area of law.   *TW: Please note that we discuss instances of domestic violence and abuse in this episode which can be distressing for some listeners.  Please note the resources below if you or anyone you know would like to seek support:   UK: Refuge https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/ Women’s Aid https://www.womensaid.org.uk/ Respect https://mensadviceline.org.uk/ National Domestic Abuse Helpline https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/   NI: Women’s Aid https://www.womensaidni.org/ Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/contacts/24-hour-domestic-and-sexual-abuse-helpline Nexus https://nexusni.org/helpline/   Ireland: Women’s Aid https://www.womensaid.ie/ Men’s Aid https://www.mensaid.ie/ EU https://www.coe.int/en/web/istanbul-convention/help-lines

Sarah meets Dublin based solicitor Siobhán Conlon who is a human rights lawyer specialising in criminal defence and immigration.  Siobhán discusses the challenges currently facing her immigration clients including homelessness and difficulties around family reunification for refugees.

Sarah is joined by lawyer Aonghus Kelly who talks about his new role as senior adviser on prosecution of international crimes with the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) where he is based in Kyiv, Ukraine. Aonghus is no stranger to the podcast and provides listeners with excellent advice on working in the sphere of international law.

In this week's episode, Sarah meets with solicitor Gavin Booth from Phoenix Law to discuss his views on the ongoing attacks on lawyers working on human rights cases.

Sarah is joined by lawyer Christopher Stanley who is a litigation consultant with the law firm KRW Law.  Christopher is a widely published legal contributor and talks to Sarah about his legal journey from academic, barrister, NGO caseworker to legal consultant.  Aspects of Christopher’s work discussed includes immigration, Northern Ireland legacy cases and historic abuse.      Please click on links below or check our blog for more of Christopher’s publications.  1974 pub bombings: unanswered questions | Feature | Law Gazette “I AM NOT NUMBER 54". By Christopher Stanley. - Village Magazine Lessons from the Birmingham Pub Bombing inquest - Legal (legalvoice.org.uk) I reject your apology. I cannot forgive you - Village Magazine

This episode of Activist Lawyer features Maria McCloskey and Hilary Perry from the PILS Project – Northern Ireland’s dedicated hub for public interest litigation.  Together with our host Sarah Henry, Maria and Hilary discuss membership, the aims of the organisation, current examples of strategic litigation and the importance of pro-bono work.   You can find out more about PILS project at www.pilsni.org

Welcome back to the Activist Lawyer podcast! We had a short break to get ready for our next series! Our host, Sarah Henry, will take listeners through season highlights and will touch on what we have coming up for you over the next few months.  Please share and review our podcast and let us know if you have any written pieces for our blog, feedback or suggestions.  You can contact us on info@activistlawyer.com   Music by AlexiAction from Pixabay

It was an absolute pleasure to interview Ms Mary Lawlor, Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders.  Mary discusses her fascinating career devoted to human rights and in particular, those defending human rights around the world.  An excellent listen for anybody interested in working in human rights on an international level.  We are very grateful to Mary for sharing insights into her fundamental work supporting ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

Sarah is joined by lawyer India Fahy who is an advocate for Integrated Education in Northern Ireland.  India talks about the importance of moving on from segregated education in Northern Ireland.  While India shares positive news stories and fantastic campaign success,  there is a long way to go if Northern Ireland is to fulfil the aspirations of the Good Friday Agreement in terms of education.   India discusses the challenges we still face as a society, supply and demand for integrated education and the new Integrated Education Act.   She also highlights the valuable work of grassroots community activism around this pertinent issue and how important parents, teachers and the Integrated Education Fund have been in carrying this campaign forward!  India is a competition litigation solicitor with BCLP in London and is secretary of the London Irish Lawyers Association. Link to the Integrated Education Fund: https://www.ief.org.uk/ Link to London Irish Lawyers Association: https://www.londonirishlawyers.co.uk/ Link to the Integrated Education Act: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/nia/2022/15/contents/enacted

Sarah is joined by Barrister Darren Lalor who specialises in criminal law in Dublin.  Darren talks about his unique journey into law which started in 2008 when Darren worked as a taxi driver in Dublin. Darren will discuss the serious problems arising through the underfunded criminal legal aid system in Ireland, particularly in the District Court. Together with his colleagues across Ireland and further afield, Darren calls on everyone to support barristers on the 2nd May 2023 as they protest the abysmal legal aid rates outside courts around Ireland.  Listen in to find out more about Darren’s work and his activism to improve legal aid funding for barristers.

This is a special episode of Activist Lawyer highlighting the fantastic efforts of Dublin-based Lawyer Edel Finn who set up a fundraiser to distribute Ukrainian books to children from Ukraine living in Ireland.  Please listen in for more information on this fantastic initiative and support Edel’s efforts if you can! https://www.gofundme.com/f/books-for-ukrainian-children

Sarah talks with leading human rights solicitor, Kevin Winters of KRW Law in this slightly longer recording of Activist Lawyer.  Kevin has been at the cutting edge of niche criminal appeal work in Northern Ireland and further afield and was instructed in numerous high profile cases.  His work on both historical abuse cases as well as ground-breaking  litigation arising from the Troubles in Northern Ireland, is widely acknowledged on a global scale and challenges otherwise accepted  narratives informed by decades of conflict, inquests  and an ever-changing political climate across these islands over a number of decades.   Throughout this recording, Kevin importantly talks in detail about intimidation and harassment directed towards himself as well as his colleagues as they carry out their work in what continues to be, turbulent and emotionally charged times.   Listen in for excellent advice and practical tips for aspiring human rights lawyers and activist lawyers!   For more on this episode please see the following link where you will find an outline of Kevin’s work as well as a background to some of the particular challenges and legal issues his firm has worked on  https://krw-law.ie/kevin-winters/

The first episode of 2023 kicks off with Aoife Kelly Desmond, Managing Solicitor at Mercy Law Resource Centre, Dublin.   Aoife talks about transitioning from corporate law into human rights law and discusses the crucial work undertaken at MLRC particularly as Ireland faces a housing and homelessness crisis.    Activism and law in action!

Meet the solicitor who inspired Activist Lawyer, Jonathan McKeown from JMK Solicitors. Jonathan takes us back to Autumn 2020 to talk about the origin of the concept for ‘Activist Lawyer’ as not just a podcast but as an outlet for showcasing and praising the people working to make the lives of the public better not just for today but into the future. Sarah and Jonathan discuss past guests, inspiring activist lawyers, the podcast’s coverage of important legal issues and Jonathan’s own career in law, business and podcasting!   This is our FINAL episode of the year and of this season! We are delighted to have recorded over 50 episodes to date and we look forward to bringing more activism to the airwaves in 2023!

Sarah is joined by Kevin Hanratty, Director of Human Rights Consortium to discuss the engaging and imperative work his organisation undertakes to advance the development of human rights in Northern Ireland.  The Human Rights Act is up for discussion with a focus on a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland.  Listeners will gain important insights into how a state human rights review works in line with international standards and will hear more about the exciting line up for the Northern Ireland Human Rights Festival 3rd – 10th December 2022!

In this weeks episode, our host Sarah, is joined by solicitor Owen Beattie who talks about his journey into human rights, public interest law and criminal defence law before opening his new firm, Owen Beattie Solicitors this year.  Owen provides excellent insights into his current practice touching on his work with families around the Historical Institutional Abuse (HIA) Redress Board.

In this week's episode, Sarah is joined by Jude Copeland, Legal Technology Specialist, from Cleaver Fulton Rankin who intrigues us with an honest and frank insight into his legal journey, his outstanding work with the LBGTQ+ community, human rights projects and not forgetting – the importance for solicitors to stop time wasting and start using legal technology in practice!

In this episode Sarah is joined by solicitor Qays Sediqi who specialises in human rights law and immigration.  Qays represents clients who boarded the plane destined for Rwanda this year.  He talks about challenging the government regarding removals to Rwanda and his Afghan refugee cases.  Qays speaks candidly about his journey into law which was not without its challenges!  A really important episode for anyone who feels a little daunted about entering the world of public / human rights law!

Are Immigration and Asylum practitioners at breaking point?  Sarah is joined by Dr Jo Wilding who reveals some stark findings through her publications and research on immigration and the legal aid market including capacity for casework and of course funding.   As well as her core research, Jo also discusses her fascinating journey into law.  A true Activist Lawyer experience!

This month saw the announcement of reforms to penal policies in the Republic of Ireland – changes that have the potential to radically overhaul how the courts, Probation Service and Prison Service deal with those convicted of crimes.   We were delighted to be joined by Saoirse Brady, Executive Director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust to talk about the work of this organisation at such a crucial time.  Saoirse, a non-practicing lawyer, takes us on her career journey which is truly inspiring and informative.  Not to be missed!

In this episode, Sarah & Jack are joined by David Renton who is a barrister, and has represented clients in a number of high-profile cases, especially concerning trade union rights and the protection of free speech.

In this week's episode, Sarah and Jack are back in the studio!

In this week's episode, Sarah and Jack are joined by Dr Yassin Brunger, a Lecturer in Human Rights Law and Co-Director of the Gender Justice and Society Research Network at Queen’s University Belfast.

Beyond Skin are creative Innovators in Peacebuilding: Enabling the Arts as the dialogue to assist the development of a more peaceful, equal and intercultural society free from racism & sectarianism.

In this week's episode Sarah and Jack are joined by Michael Clements, Lawyer at the European Court of Human Rights · Council of Europe

In this week's episode, Sarah and Jack are joined by Rachel Killean.