This fall, the Center for Human Rights and Humanitarian Law launched an exciting new initiative: the Coffee and Human Rights series. Designed to foster direct engagement and meaningful dialogue, these events provide students with a unique opportunity to connect with human rights practitioners in a casual, face-to-face setting over coffee. Participants have the chance to delve into the realities of human rights work, explore practitioners’ career paths, and engage in vibrant discussions about pressing global issues.

On September 16, 2024, the Center proudly hosted the inaugural event in this series. Featuring distinguished speakers Jason Pielemeier, Executive Director, and Idan Ben Yakir, Senior Operations & Policy Associate of the Global Network Initiative (GNI), the session offered valuable insights into the intersection of human rights and technology.

During the event, Pielemeier and Ben Yakir shared their professional journeys and provided a behind-the-scenes look at the impactful work of the GNI. Their organization focuses on protecting and advancing freedom of expression and privacy in the technology sector, working collaboratively with stakeholders from civil society, academia, industry, and government.

This inaugural session was part of the Center’s ongoing partnership with the GNI and exemplified the kind of interdisciplinary, interactive learning opportunities the Center seeks to create. Students engaged in lively discussions, posed thoughtful questions, and gained a deeper understanding of the complex challenges involved in promoting human rights globally.

The Coffee and Human Rights series is just one of many ways the Center aims to bridge the gap between human rights theory and practice, inspiring the next generation of human rights advocates to create meaningful change.