PUNE: The National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS), Kochi, successfully hosted the International Conference on Humanities and Justice – Empowering Marginalised Communities through Human Rights Advocacy (Empower Justice – 2025) on September 11, 2025. The theme of the conference was “Converging Perspectives: Interdisciplinary Strategies to Empower Marginalised Communities.” The event was organised by the Centre for Human Rights, NUALS, in association with the Global Research Conference Forum (GRCF), a statement issued by the organisers said.The conference commenced at 10:00 a.m. at the NUALS Seminar Hall, Administrative Block. Dr. Namitha K.L., Director, Centre for Human Rights, delivered the welcome address, followed by the presidential address by Prof. (Dr.) G. B. Reddy, Vice Chancellor, NUALS. The event was formally inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) Vani Kesari, Dean, Faculty of Law, Cochin University of Science and Technology.The inaugural session witnessed felicitations by eminent dignitaries, including Dr. Jidapa Thavarit (Bangkok, Thailand), Prof. Dr. Prakash Divakaran (Vice Chancellor, Himalayan University), Dr. Gireesh Kumar J (Central University of Kerala), Dr. J.P. Bhosale (Savitribai Phule Pune University), and Adv. M.S. Saji (Senior Advocate and Author). The session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Antony Panengadan, Principal and Director, St. Antony’s Group of Institutions, Thrissur, added the statement.The day-long conference featured presentations and discussions from academicians, researchers, practitioners, and students on a wide spectrum of issues, including gender justice, disability rights, prison reforms, refugee protection, environmental accountability, and access to healthcare. The deliberations encouraged critical reflection and constructive debate, offering valuable insights into strategies for empowering marginalised communities.The event concluded with a valedictory session, where participants collectively reaffirmed the urgent need for collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches to promote justice, equality, and human rights.
