Research SIM
Human rights research is part and parcel of Utrecht Law School's five research programmes, of the Utrecht University Centre for Global Challenges , of its strategic theme ‘Institutions for Open Societies, the ‘Gender and Diversity Hub’ and the ‘Future of Citizen-based Initiatives Hub’ . Find our key current and recent research projects here:
Current research projects
Armed groups and international law (2020-2023)
Full title: Dangerous Liaisons: civilian agency, armed groups and international law
This project examines the concept of civilian agency in territories under the control of armed groups.
It is funded by NWO (The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research).
Proud and Safe (2019-2022)
Trans and intersex persons face severe harassment and violence in all regions of the world. However, the human rights frameworks on gender-based violence, which focus on women, pay limited attention to such cases. This project explores these norms, explains their shortcomings and proposes ways in which these can be improved. It is funded by NWO (The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research), more information can be found here.
Cities of Refuge (2017-2022)
This project explores the relevance of international human rights to how local governments in Europe welcome and integrate refugees.
European network of legal experts in gender equality and non-discrimination
The network provides independent information and advice to the European Commission on equality and non-discrimination law.
GIRARE: Gender Identity Registration and Human Rights Effects
Research into the effects of changes in government practices regarding the attribution and registration of legal sex/gender on people’s well-being.
Pressurights
In many countries civil society is to be under pressure. This project will focus on anti-NGO measures, particularly in Europe.
Gender Injustice
What are the shortcomings of European human rights law and how can these be addressed so as to advance gender justice?