John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
April 24, 2024 – Stanford, CA – Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, a prominent diplomat and human rights champion, has been selected to receive the prestigious Jackson H. Ralston Prize in International Law at Stanford Law School. The Ralston Prize is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of international law and the advancement of peace and justice on a global scale.
Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I am grateful and filled with humility that the prize committee wants to recognize the work that the teams around me are engaged in.” He also acknowledged the honor of being included among the esteemed past recipients of the Ralston Prize, remarking, “To be included in their company is a huge honor.”
In his distinguished career, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein has served in various high-profile roles, including as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and as the first President of the Assembly of State Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. Allen Weiner, director of the Stanford Program in International and Comparative Law, praised Zeid for his unwavering commitment to universal human rights, describing him as a fearless defender always willing to speak truth to power.
Weiner highlighted Zeid’s instrumental role in shaping international institutions focused on promoting human rights and ensuring accountability for war crimes. He commended Zeid’s efforts in transforming the International Criminal Court from a concept into a functioning body for investigating and prosecuting international crimes.
Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein emphasized the importance of recognizing the unsung heroes of international human rights, stating, “The true heroes in the realm of international human rights are those people who most people don’t know.” He paid tribute to individuals who have shown immense courage and sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of justice and principles.
The Ralston Prize, named in honor of Jackson H. Ralston, a prominent international and labor law practitioner, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional competence in advancing the objectives of international law and world order. The prize will be presented to Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein during a ceremony at Stanford Law School on May 23, where he will also deliver the Ralston Lecture.
Zeid’s selection as the recipient of the Ralston Prize further solidifies his reputation as a leading figure in the defense of human rights and the promotion of global peace and justice.
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