Ruth de María Abril Stoffels

Ruth de María Abril Stoffels is a Professor at Cardenal Herrera-CEU University's Faculty of Law, Business and Political Sciences, Department of Legal Sciences. She holds affiliations with the International University of La Rioja and Complutense University of Madrid, and leads the Chair of Solidarity and CEDRI-International Protection of Human Rights research group.

• Universities: Cardenal Herrera-CEU University, International University of La Rioja, Complutense University of Madrid
• Research Areas: Public International Law, Human Rights Protection, Gender Equality in Law, Armed Conflicts, Child Protection

Her research focuses on international legal frameworks for human rights, particularly addressing gender-based discrimination and child protection in armed conflicts. She has pioneered analyses of girls associated with armed groups, EU gender mainstreaming in peace missions, and the legal categorization of invisible labor. Her work bridges legal theory with practical protections for vulnerable populations.

Recent publications highlight trends in international humanitarian law, gender-responsive policies, and EU regulatory mechanisms. Key themes include child soldier reintegration, CEDAW Committee jurisprudence, and legal gaps in prosecuting gender-based violence during conflicts.

As a thesis director, she guided Elena Juaristi Besalduch's 2015 doctoral research on EU work-life balance regulations. Her methodological innovations in legal pedagogy, such as digital portfolios and gamification, reflect her commitment to educational advancement.