Roza Pati

Dr. Roza Pati is a Professor of Law at St. Thomas University College of Law, holding the St. John Paul II Distinguished Professor title. She serves as Director of the LL.M./J.S.D. Program in Intercultural Human Rights and Founding Director of the John J. Brunetti Human Trafficking Academy. Her roles also include membership in the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development (appointed by Pope Francis) and previously the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace (appointed by Pope Benedict XVI), uniquely representing the U.S. in these roles.

Education: B.A. (highest honors) and J.D. (honors) from the University of Tirana, LL.M. (summa cum laude) from St. Thomas University School of Law, and Dr. iur. (summa cum laude) from the University of Potsdam.

Research & Advocacy: Focused on human trafficking, human rights, and international law. A pioneer in combating human trafficking, she co-founded initiatives like the Miami Declaration of Principles on Human Trafficking and advises governments globally. Her work emphasizes cultural dialogue and legal frameworks to address modern slavery and systemic inequalities.

Awards:

• Gillen-Massey Award (2022): Honoring her leadership in anti-trafficking advocacy.
• Voices of Freedom Award (2017): Recognizing her contributions to survivor empowerment.

Global Engagement: Served as a visiting professor at institutions in India (e.g., Kerala Law Academy, Christ University School of Law) and Romania (Romanian-American University). Participated in high-level dialogues, including the Vatican’s Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences and intergovernmental forums.

Advising & Mentorship: Mentored survivors like Katariina Rosenblatt, founder of There is H.O.P.E. for Me. Oversees academic initiatives such as the Intercultural Human Rights Law Review and the Susan J. Ferrell Moot Court Competition.