Oxford International Human Rights Law – Week 2

Week 2 of the program has certainly been busy! This was the only week where we were scheduled to have classes every day so Friday was a welcome relief for most of us. This week saw us learn about the different human rights systems in the world – we learnt about the African, Inter-American and European systems, something which made the Australians amongst us frustrated at the lack of human rights protection and enforcement mechanisms at home. We also spent time discussing the role of the United Nations in protecting human rights. My afternoon classes focused on 9/11, the NATO bombing of Kosovo and the treatment of prisoners of war and combatants – all extremely thought provoking issues.

Aside from study, we have quickly learnt that the Kings Arms is the best pub on our street and that shopping in Oxford is quite good! Lots of time has been spent trawling the main shopping areas in Oxford on weekends – the big question now is how I’m going to get my luggage down to 20kg for the next leg of my trip! We also had our second formal dinner on Friday night and it was fun to see everyone dressed up and being able to relax for the evening. This was followed by drinks at the college bar and a night out on the town.

The weather has finally gotten better this week although it is still far from ‘summer’. It was nice to be able to get out and explore Oxford and finally not have to wear a jumper everywhere! Fingers crossed the weather stays this way for the rest of our time here!

Another part of the program that I’m really enjoying is meeting new friends from all around the world. Everyone seems to be fascinated by Australian accents! As one of only two non-Americans in one of my classes, I’m being made constantly aware of how differently we pronounce some words, something that has made for some funny discussions. The word ‘combatant’ was subject to a lengthy debate! Having people here from all over the world has also added many different perspectives to our class discussions and I feel like I’m learning just as much from this as from the course content itself.

It’s hard to believe we’re at the half way point of the program now – there’s still so many things I want to do and see in Oxford. With the arrival of the Olympics next week, Oxford, as well as the rest of the UK is buzzing. I know I’m certainly looking forward to donning my green and gold next weekend watching Australia play at the hockey.

Until next time… 

 Lindsey 

Lindsey Chu is participating on our Oxford International Human Rights Law Program in the UK. Lindsey is in her 5th year of Bachelor of Communications/Law at University of Newcastle.