The award recognises the achievements of human rights lawyers and defenders who achieve remarkable outcomes in the face of real danger and adversity.

Shelagh McCall KC, convenor of the Faculty’s human rights and rule of law committee and a member of the award selection committee, said: “We have chosen to extend the deadline for applications for the award to give prospective candidates more time to complete their entries.

“The award recognises those making a vital contribution to protecting human rights, helps them promote their work, and demonstrates our solidarity with them in upholding the rule of law. It’s a terrific opportunity and I would strongly encourage people to apply.”

The winner of the Scottish Bar International Human Rights Award will be hosted by Faculty in Edinburgh for up to two weeks next year.

During this time, they will attend the award ceremony, promote their work, meet with Faculty members and human rights organisations, and receive bespoke training at Faculty’s training and education department.

The selection committee for the award will be chaired by Lord Bonomy, a retired and eminent senior Scottish judge and former judge of the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.

He will be joined by Professor Alan Miller, professor of practice in human rights law and independent expert with the UN Development Programme Crisis Bureau. Other members include Roddy Dunlop KC, the Dean of the Faculty of Advocates, and Ruth Crawford KC, the treasurer of the Faculty of Advocates.

The closing date for entries is now Friday 27 September 2024. For full details and to apply click here.