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Sandra Coliver
Senior Managing Legal Officer, Freedom of Assembly, Association, Info & Expression at Open Society Justice Initiative
Professional Background
Sandra Coliver is a distinguished senior managing legal officer at the Open Society Justice Initiative, based in New York. With a robust alignment towards defending civic space, she collaborates with a talented global team dedicated to litigating and advocating for law reforms that empower individuals to exercise their fundamental rights freely. Sandra's commitment to championing the rights to protest and association underpins her advocacy for independent lawyers and judges, especially in the tumultuous environment of electoral periods. Her professional journey has been not only extensive but deeply impactful, touching on critical human rights issues around the world.
Before joining the Open Society Justice Initiative, Sandra served as the Director of the Center for Justice and Accountability from 2001 to 2005. Here, she was instrumental in developing processes that support survivors in holding their persecutors accountable in both U.S. and international courts. Her leadership at the Center exemplifies her dedication to justice and the rule of law, advocating for those who have faced persecution in ways that resonate throughout the human rights community.
Sandra's dedication to global human rights initiatives is further evidenced by her significant role in Bosnia and Herzegovina following the genocide. During her three-year stint, she collaborated with authoritative entities like the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the International Crisis Group, enhancing legal frameworks and establishing vital human rights protocols in a post-conflict environment.
Her extensive legal career also includes a pivotal role as the Law Program Director at Article 19 from 1990 to 1996, where she explored vital subjects including hate speech, freedom of expression, and access to information. This era showcased her innovative perspectives on pressing legal issues and her commitment to fostering open dialogue in society. Sandra's legal experience expands to the judiciary, having served as a law clerk for the 9th Circuit, a public defender, and a private defense attorney, thereby gaining a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape both nationally and internationally.
In academia, Sandra has contributed her expertise by teaching at prestigious institutions such as American University’s Summer Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law and UC Berkeley Law School, further disseminating her vast knowledge and experiences to aspiring lawyers and advocates.
Education and Achievements
Sandra Coliver holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the prestigious University of California, Berkeley - School of Law, where she honed her legal skills and deepened her commitment to justice. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Philosophy from Yale University, a foundation that undoubtedly underpins her analytical capabilities and ethical reasoning in her legal practice.
Throughout her accomplished career, Sandra has served on numerous high-profile boards, including as a Board Member at Amnesty International USA and Human Rights Advocates. Her active participation in these organizations demonstrates her ongoing commitment to human rights and justice. Sandra has also held significant roles as the Senior Legal Advisor at the International Crisis Group and as the Senior Human Rights Officer, Police Training in Bosnia and Herzegovina, at the United Nations, each position allowing her to drive human rights initiatives across the globe. Her extensive involvement with various organizations reaffirms her passion for rule of law and access to justice for all.
Achievements
Sandra Coliver's professional trajectory is laden with notable achievements that reflect her commitment to human rights and dedication to legal advocacy. Her leadership at various international organizations has facilitated the development of policies and frameworks that mitigate restrictions on civic freedoms and empower individuals to stand against injustices. Her innovative approaches, especially in the realms of hate speech, national security, and freedom of expression, have made substantial contributions to understanding and promoting civil liberties.
Her role in directing the Center for Justice and Accountability has played a crucial role in advancing accountability for human rights violations, showcasing the power of legal frameworks in achieving justice for survivors. Additionally, Sandra’s work in post-conflict contexts, particularly in Bosnia, highlights her commitment to rebuilding legal systems in countries that have faced significant trauma, proving her effectiveness in navigating complex social and legal environments.
Having cultivated relationships with influential organizations and fostered a collaborative spirit among human rights communities worldwide, Sandra continues to be a vital force driving positive change in the legal and humanitarian fields. Her ongoing dedication to mentoring young legal professionals and her role as an educator strengthen her influence and approach towards creating a more just society.
In summary, Sandra Coliver represents a paragon of dedication, resilience, and expertise in the legal and human rights fields. Through her comprehensive body of work—spanning advocacy, litigation, education, and international collaboration—she has significantly contributed to the advancement of justice and human rights, making a lasting impact both in the United States and across the globe.