WCL's 2007 UN CAT Project participants at the 39th session of the United Nations Committee against Torture, which was held at the Palais Wilson in Geneva, Switzerland: Front row: Lindsay Jenkins ('08). Back row: Charles "Chip" Rosenberg ('08), Shanti Martin ('09), Amy Tai ('08), Gwyneth Hesser ('08), Jennifer de Laurentiis, Special Assistant to the Dean and UN CAT Project Coordinator ('92), and Marisa Bassett ('09). Not pictured: Dean Grossman, currently UN CAT Chair.
United Nations Committee against Torture Project
Founded in 2004, WCL's United Nations Committee against Torture (or UN CAT) Project is a one-of-a-kind experiential learning opportunity for upper-level students to deepen their knowledge of international human rights law and experience firsthand the UN CAT proceedings in Geneva, Switzerland.
The Project's application and selection process takes place during the spring semester and is widely advertised, including in The Docket. During the fall semester, the approximately six participating students assist in preparing for the official UN CAT meetings which are held in November. The students take a for-credit seminar with specialized readings and instruction on the prohibition of torture and the universal system, co-taught by the Dean and UN CAT Chair Claudio Grossman and his Special Assistant and UN CAT Project Coordinator Jennifer de Laurentiis ('92). Students research and synthesize vast materials concerning torture and human rights in pertinent countries, and draft extensive papers identifying potential compliance issues involving the operative treaty (the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment).
In November, the group travels to Geneva for the UN CAT meetings, witnessing firsthand the "dialogue" between the Committee and State Party delegations, identifying germane developments and issues, and meeting regularly to strategize and conduct follow-up research. The Project also includes an annual WCL alumni dinner, site visits, and meetings with nongovernmental organizations while in Geneva.
Following the group's return to WCL, students build upon this unique human rights experience by authoring articles, giving presentations, and participating in other campus and community initiatives aimed at ending the use of torture around the world.
Inquiries about the UN CAT Project should be directed to Jennifer de Laurentiis at jdelaurentiis@wcl.american.edu.
The Palais des Nations of the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.
