Introduction
Christopher McCrudden stands as a prominent figure in the field of human rights and equality law, with a career that spans decades and continents. Currently serving as a Professor of Human Rights and Equality Law at Queen’s University Belfast and as the William W. Cook Global Law Professor at the University of Michigan Law School, McCrudden has made significant contributions to the understanding and application of human rights in legal contexts. This blog post highlights his academic journey, key publications, and ongoing research interests.
Academic Background and Career Trajectory
McCrudden’s academic journey began at Queen’s University Belfast, where he completed his undergraduate studies from 1970 to 1974. His pursuit of knowledge took him to the United States, where he was awarded a Harkness Fellowship, allowing him to study at Yale Law School from 1974 to 1976. Following his time at Yale, McCrudden moved to the United Kingdom to pursue his doctoral studies at Oxford University. He initially studied at Nuffield College and later became a Junior Research Fellow at Balliol College.
In 1980, McCrudden was elected as Fellow and Tutor in Law at Lincoln College and became a CUF Lecturer in the Oxford Law Faculty. His expertise and dedication to the field led to his promotion to Professor of Human Rights Law in 1998. Throughout his career, he has also been called to the English Bar and the Northern Ireland Bar, practicing as a barrister at Gray’s Inn and as a Non-Resident Tenant at Blackstone Chambers.
Research Focus and Contributions
McCrudden’s research primarily revolves around human rights, equality, and discrimination law. He is particularly interested in the intersection of international economic law and human rights, exploring how these areas influence and shape one another. His insights into these complex relationships have made him a leading voice in discussions about the role of law in promoting social justice.
One of McCrudden’s significant contributions to the field is his book, Buying Social Justice (Oxford University Press, 2007). In this work, he examines the relationship between public procurement practices and equality, arguing that procurement policies can be powerful tools for advancing social justice. His research in this area earned him a Certificate of Merit from the American Society of International Law in 2008, recognizing the book’s impact on the field.
In addition to his book, McCrudden has published numerous articles and papers in prestigious journals. He serves on the editorial boards of several notable publications, including the Oxford Journal of Legal Studies, the International Journal of Discrimination and the Law, and the Journal of International Economic Law. His role as co-editor of the Law in Context series further showcases his commitment to advancing legal scholarship.
Recognition and Fellowships
Throughout his career, McCrudden has received numerous accolades for his contributions to legal scholarship. In 2006, Queen’s University Belfast awarded him an honorary LLD in recognition of his work. He was elected a Fellow of the British Academy in 2008, an honor that acknowledges his significant contributions to the humanities and social sciences.
In 2011, McCrudden was awarded a three-year Leverhulme Major Research Fellowship, allowing him to further his research and explore critical issues in human rights and equality law. Additionally, he serves on the European Commission’s Expert Network on the Application of the Gender Equality Directives, contributing his expertise to shape policies that promote gender equality across Europe.
Conclusion
Christopher McCrudden’s distinguished career in human rights and equality law has made a profound impact on the legal landscape. His scholarship not only enriches academic discourse but also informs practical approaches to addressing issues of discrimination and inequality. As he continues to teach, research, and contribute to the field, McCrudden remains a vital voice in the ongoing quest for social justice and human rights.
Through his work, McCrudden exemplifies the crucial role that legal scholars play in advocating for equality and shaping the future of human rights law. His dedication to teaching and research inspires both students and colleagues, ensuring that the principles of justice and equality remain at the forefront of legal scholarship and practice.
