Michael P. Scharf

Michael P. Scharf serves as the Joseph C. Hostetler—BakerHostetler Professor of Law and Associate Dean for Global Legal Studies at Case Western Reserve University School of Law, returning to the deanship in 2024 after over a decade as Co-Dean. He concurrently acts as Managing Director of the Nobel Peace Prize-nominated NGO Public International Law & Policy Group.

His educational background includes:

• Juris Doctor, Duke University (1988)
• Bachelor of Arts with honors, Duke University (1985)

Scharf specializes in international criminal law and human rights, with direct involvement in landmark cases including training judges for Saddam Hussein's trial, serving as Special Assistant to the Prosecutor of the Cambodia Genocide Tribunal (2008), and presenting an Amicus Argument before the International Criminal Court Appeals Chamber in 2022 regarding child soldier cases. His research bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications in global justice mechanisms.

His accolades include:

• Case Western Reserve University School of Law Alumni Association's Distinguished Teacher Award
• Ohio Magazine's Excellence in Education Award
• National Book of the Year Award (awarded five times for his publications)

Scharf has taught International Law for 30+ years, ranking among the field's most cited authors since 2010 per the Sisk/Leiter study. He holds leadership roles including President of the American Branch of the International Law Association, Executive Council member of the American Society of International Law, and life membership in the Council on Foreign Relations. As producer/host of NPR's 'Talking Foreign Policy' since 2011, he connects academic discourse with public policy debates.

He co-founded and leads the Amicus Practice at Public International Law & Policy Group, which submits expert briefs to international courts, and chairs the Board of Advisors for the International Criminal Court Moot Court Competition.