Amal Clooney is a distinguished British international human rights lawyer notable for her robust advocacy in high-profile legal cases and her commitment to justice worldwide. A graduate of St Hugh’s College, Oxford, and New York University School of Law, Clooney’s academic accomplishments have laid a solid foundation for her legal expertise. She has worked at prestigious institutions, including Sullivan & Cromwell and Doughty Street Chambers, addressing cases of international significance, including those related to war crimes and human rights violations.
Clooney has represented an array of notable clients, such as journalists facing oppression and victims of genocide. She has played a pivotal role in cases against individuals and organizations responsible for mass atrocities, including her representation of Yazidi survivors seeking justice against the Islamic State. Her legal endeavors have often resulted in landmark judgments, such as the conviction of an ISIS member for genocide. As a member of the international legal task force following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, she has contributed to efforts aimed at securing accountability for war crimes.
In addition to her legal practice, Clooney serves as an adjunct law professor at Columbia Law School, where she co-teaches a Human Rights Course. She has contributed her expertise to numerous international commissions, including advising Kofi Annan on Syrian matters and as a Special Adviser to the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. Clooney’s prominent roles reflect her dedication to fostering legal reform and advocating for human rights on a global scale.
As co-founder of the Clooney Foundation for Justice, she leads initiatives that gather evidence of human rights abuses, provide legal support to victims, and promote accountability. The foundation operates in over 40 countries, addressing issues such as media freedom, gender-based violence, and the rule of law. Clooney’s philanthropic efforts, including scholarships for women and significant contributions during humanitarian crises, further underline her commitment to social justice, empowerment, and advocacy for the powerless.