Interview with Dr. Camilo Sánchez - University of Virginia

Nelson Camilo Sánchez International Human Rights Law Scholar and Researcher Professor of Law, University of Virginia School of Law Director, International Human Rights Clinic, UVA Law Former Associate Professor, National University of Colombia Former Research Director, Dejusticia LL.M., Harvard Law School Ph.D. in Socio-Legal Studies and Law Degree, National University of Colombia In this interview, Dr. Camilo Sánchez reflects on his academic journey and what inspired him to pursue international human rights law, with particular attention to his research on violence, transitional justice, and Colombia. We discuss his work at the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and the Colombian Commission of Jurists, exploring how these experiences shaped his understanding of human rights in practice. He also addresses common misconceptions surrounding international human rights law and the challenges of translating legal principles into meaningful protections. The conversation then turns to his experience at the University of Virginia, where he shares insights into his teaching, the subjects covered in his classes, and the questions that shape his work as a scholar. The interview concludes with practical advice for students interested in pursuing a career in international human rights law, including the skills, experiences, and perspectives that can help them navigate the field.