International Human Rights: Defending Rights Around the Globe

International Human Rights Advisors provides comprehensive legal counsel and representation to governments, individuals, and NGOs navigating the most challenging matters in international human rights law. Our team combines analytical rigour with strategic advocacy to protect fundamental rights.

International Experience

Our expertise spans the world’s leading human rights institutions, including:

• European Court of Human Rights (ECHR)
• International Court of Justice (ICJ)
• International Criminal Court (ICC)
• African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR)
• Inter-American Court of Human Rights
• United Nations Human Rights Council
• UN Treaty Bodies and Special Procedures

We offer both direct representation before these tribunals and strategic consultation services, working closely with local counsel to develop effective litigation strategies for complex international disputes.

European Court of Human Rights

International Human Rights Advisors has extensive experience before the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. We handle cases spanning the full spectrum of human rights concerns protected by the European Convention on Human Rights.

Our particular expertise includes:

• Emergency applications for Rule 39 injunctions to prevent imminent harm
• Grand Chamber cases involving matters of significant jurisprudential importance
• Complex cases concerning political corruption and abuse of power
• Challenges to unfair trials and violations of due process
• Torture and inhuman or degrading treatment cases

We have successfully represented clients in landmark judgments that have shaped European human rights law and established important precedents for the protection of fundamental rights across Council of Europe member states.

UN Special Procedures Expertise

As recognised specialists in UN human rights mechanisms, we regularly bring complaints under various Special Procedures mandates:

Arbitrary Detention

We work extensively with the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (WGAD) to challenge unlawful deprivations of liberty. Our submissions have secured numerous favourable opinions establishing that detentions violated international standards set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other binding instruments. We excel at preparing comprehensive communications that document violations, engage with government responses, and secure remedial measures for our clients.

Torture and Mistreatment

Our team has particular expertise with the Committee Against Torture (CAT) and other torture prevention mechanisms. We bring individual complaints, prepare shadow reports during country reviews, and work with NGO coalitions to document patterns of abuse. Our services encompass emergency interventions, long-term litigation strategies, and comprehensive victim support, including medical rehabilitation and protection measures.

Additional UN Mechanisms

We also engage regularly with:

• Special Rapporteur on Torture
• Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression
• Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders
• Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances
• Human Rights Committee (CCPR)

Comprehensive Legal Services

Our international human rights practice offers:

• Emergency interventions and urgent appeals
• Strategic litigation before multiple jurisdictions
• Shadow reporting and alternative information submissions
• Expert witness testimony and amicus briefs
• Advisory opinions and legal analysis
• Training and capacity building for local partners

Integrated Advocacy Approach

Understanding that human rights violations often require multi-faceted responses, we provide:

• Media strategy and public advocacy campaigns
• Diplomatic engagement and lobbying
• Reputation management for affected individuals
• Coordination with NGOs and civil society
• Post-judgment implementation strategies

Case Studies

Torture Victim Representation

We successfully represented a refugee before the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, securing recognition of torture and cruel treatment by military officials. Working pro bono, we also coordinated with UNHCR to obtain emergency medical treatment and resettlement, demonstrating our holistic approach to client advocacy.

Arbitrary Detention

When families approached us regarding the incommunicado detention of their relatives, we mounted a comprehensive campaign involving UN Special Procedures submissions, media outreach, and diplomatic pressure. Our coordinated efforts elevated the case to international prominence, engaging governments and civil society organisations in securing their release.

Cross-Border Human Rights Violations

For clients facing transnational human rights violations, we’ve developed innovative strategies combining regional human rights mechanisms with diplomatic channels and targeted media campaigns to achieve justice across jurisdictional boundaries.

Our Commitment

International Human Rights Advisors remains dedicated to a principled defence of international human rights law. We believe in accountability without borders and work to ensure that human rights protections are meaningful and enforceable, regardless of where violations occur. Our global network of partners and deep understanding of international mechanisms enables us to deliver effective solutions for the most challenging human rights cases.