Human rights internationally are bound by the legal principle of national sovereignty. What this means is that nations are the entities that are expected to protect human rights. Human rights are universal; we have these rights because we are human. So how can international actors compel these states to protect human rights? As a legal issue, lawyers have played an essential role in advancing the universality of human rights in light of a mixed record of international protection. Doug Becker speaks with Maria Armoudian about her new book Lawyers Beyond Borders: Advancing International Human Rights Through Local Laws and Courts.”

Maria Armoudian is a Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at the University of Auckland. She is an expert in media and politics. Her new book is called Lawyers Beyond Borders Advancing International Human Rights Through Local Laws and Courts.

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Disclaimer: The ideas expressed in this discussion reflect the views of the guests and not necessarily the views of The Big Q. 

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