David Donat Cattin, PhD, adjunct associate professor at CGA, moderated the panel discussion on May 30 focusing on "Counterterrorism, Human Rights and the Independence of Judges." The session was opened by CGA Associate Dean Carolyn Kissane and prefaced by remarks from the NYC Bar Association's relevant Committees Co-Chairs. The discussion examined the UAE's treatment of individuals accused or detained under broadly and vaguely defined terrorist offenses. The treatment of human rights defenders, academics, or lawyers advocating for national reforms as terrorists is an emerging concern. The case involving 84 dissidents in the United Arab Emirates exemplifies this issue: experts and NGOs reported that these individuals are under imminent risk of irremediable sentences such as life imprisonment or the death penalty. This critical topic was explored in-depth during the discussion with legal experts, scholars, NGOs, and think tanks.
June 12, 2024