Alka Pradhan

Alka Pradhan is an Adjunct Professor of Law and a leading expert in international human rights and humanitarian law, with a focus on counterterrorism, torture, and fair trial rights. She is actively engaged in high-impact legal representation at the Guantanamo Bay Military Commissions and the International Criminal Court.

Her educational background includes a BA in International Relations from Johns Hopkins University, an MA from SAIS, a JD from Columbia Law School, and an LLM in International Human Rights from LSE.

Pradhan’s research and advocacy center on:

• Human rights compliance in counterterrorism operations
• Legal and ethical challenges in military commissions
• Prohibition of torture and cruel treatment
• Accountability for war crimes and targeted killings
• International legal standards for investigative interviewing (Méndez Principles)
• Victim representation before UN human rights bodies

Her recent publications reflect a consistent focus on the intersection of national security, human rights, and justice. Themes include fair trial rights, detainee treatment, targeted killings, and legal advocacy in politically sensitive contexts. Her work bridges academic scholarship and frontline legal practice.

Scientific awards and honors:

• Profiled in The New York Times Magazine
• Featured in the documentary 'The Trial'
• Recognized in multiple books on Guantanamo Bay
• Active contributor to UN legal standard-setting processes

Pradhan has advised governments, litigated before international bodies, and submitted amicus briefs to the U.S. Supreme Court. She has represented Guantanamo detainees in habeas corpus cases and civilian victims of drone strikes. Her work combines rigorous legal analysis with deep commitment to justice and human dignity. She has collaborated with parliamentarians in the UK and Europe on official investigations into torture and war crimes.

She is a member of the Drafting Group of Experts for the Méndez Principles and frequently contributes to public discourse through media commentary and law review articles.