Surya P. Subedi QC is Professor of International Law at the University of Leeds, UK, and a Barrister at Three Stone Chambers, Lincoln's Inn, London. He has served as the UN special rapporteur for human rights in Cambodia, as an adviser on human rights to the British foreign secretary, and as legal procedural adviser to the World Conservation Congress of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. He holds a DPhil and a DCL from the University of Oxford. He was elected to the Institut de Droit International in 2011. He has acted as a counsel in several cases before the International Court of Justice.

Abstract

Dedication

Photo of the author

Foreword

Preface

Table of Plates

Chapter 1: The Himalayan Life: From Rebel Leader to Royal Adviser

Chapter 2: The Oxford Years and the Triple Gains

Chapter 3: Life as A Global Citizen in Global Britain

Chapter 4: Contribution to Democracy and Human Rights in Cambodia

Chapter 5: Contribution to Democracy and Human Rights in Nepal

Chapter 6: Candidate for UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

Chapter 7: Extending the Frontiers of Knowledge in Human Rights

Chapter 8: The Future of Human Rights

Chapter 9: Reflections on My Journey

Appendix: List of My Publications

Index

Drawing on the personal experience of a leading international jurist, this book provides insights into the workings of international law and human rights from a global perspective that transcends the traditional divide between the West and the East, and the Global South and Global North. The work follows the author's remarkable journey from a simple village in Nepal to becoming an international jurist acclaimed for his innovative academic and influential practical legal work and nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. It offers insights into the powers bearing on international policymaking, the dynamics of human rights negotiations with governments, and the effects of their outcomes on the lives of their citizens. While much has been written on international human rights law, this inspirational memoir casts a new light on the working of human rights, law, and justice through the eyes of a leading actor. It provides a valuable contribution to the study of justice and human rights and the importance of individual action. As such, the book presents an accessible source for current debates around the development and effectiveness of international law and human rights and practices for decolonising these debates. The book will provide inspiration and practical guidance for students, academics, international lawyers, jurists, and human rights advocates.