Foreign Affairs Symposium: Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein

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The Foreign Affairs Symposium hosts Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, the former U.N. high commissioner for human rights, moderated by Steven David, Johns Hopkins professor of political science. This year's symposium explores "Shattered Reality: Reimagining the Future."

Through a steadfast commitment to justice, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein — the U.N. high commissioner for human rights from 2014 until 2018 — has established himself as one of the world's most powerful advocates for human rights and open societies. Known for his outspoken criticism of fascism, religious radicalism, and threats to civil liberties, he has called upon powerful and small states alike to secure human rights, drawing notable attention to atrocities committed in Syria, Venezuela, Nicaragua, the Middle East, Libya, and Myanmar.

A veteran diplomat with decades of experience, Al Hussein has served as president of the U.N. Security Council, Jordan's permanent representative to the U.N., and Jordan's ambassador to the U.S. An expert in the field of international justice, Al Hussein was also a central figure in the establishment of the International Criminal Court (ICC), chairing complex negotiations to establish the exact terms of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. He was subsequently elected the first president of the ICC's governing body in 2002 and grew it into the internationally recognized court that it is today.

Today, Al Hussein is the president and CEO of the International Peace Institute, a think tank dedicated to promoting peace, security, and sustainable development with policy research, strategic analysis, publishing, and convening.

All in-person events at Johns Hopkins must follow university COVID-19 policies. See current guidelines online.

This event is co-sponsored by the International Studies Program, the SNF Agora Institute, and the Political Science Department. Thank you to our other sponsors: the Parents Fund, the President's Office, and the Alumni Association.