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Human Rights Champion Sigrid Rausing to speak at University of York

Posted on 11 November 2010

Sigrid Rausing, graduate of the University of York, philanthropist, writer and champion of human rights will give a keynote address entitled 'American Torture: CIA theories of interrogation' at a major public event focusing on human rights.

The event will also include a panel discussion to consider the possibility of positioning York as a ‘human rights city’ and is organised by the University’s Centre for Applied Human Rights. The event takes place at the Law and Management Building on Heslington East from 5.45pm on Friday 12 November.

The panel discussion will also explore issues such as: How is defending human rights different in York and Nairobi? How can the human rights of vulnerable groups be protected during an economic crisis? If human rights begin at home, what does this mean for a university, a local authority, a funding agency, or a religious denomination?

The panel of local experts will include representatives from York-based development agency International Service, the faith community, the University and the Joseph Rowntree Charitable trust.

Notes to editors:

  • Sigrid Rausing is a writer, publisher, and founder of the Sigrid Rausing Trust, which was set up to support the international human rights movement (www.sigrid-rausing-trust.org).
  • The Centre for Applied Human Rights was founded in 2007 with support from the Sigrid Rausing Trust.  It draws on the long history of study and engagement in the issues of development, politics, and gender rights at the University.  The Centre focuses on practical issues in human rights and at its core is the fellowship scheme for human rights defenders.  This scheme enables activists working in some of the most challenging countries in the world the opportunity to come to York for a period of study, reflection and respite.
  • Event information
    Defending Human Rights: Global and local perspectives
    Friday 12 November 2010, 5.45- 7.15 pm
    Location: Law and Management Building, Heslington East
    Speakers:        Sigrid Rausing ‘American Torture: CIA theories of interrogation
    Rahab Maina: ‘York Human Rights Fellowships, a personal account
    Panel Discussion: York as a 'human rights city'
    See: www.york.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/public-lectures/autumn-term-2010/defending-human-rights/

Contact details

David Garner
Senior Press Officer

Tel: +44 (0)1904 322153

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