Sanya Samtani

Sanya Samtani is a Senior Researcher at the Mandela Institute, University of the Witwatersrand. They hold a PhD from the University of Oxford, alongside BCL and LLB Hons degrees. Their work focuses on intersections between intellectual property law, human rights, and international law, with particular emphasis on disability rights, access to education, and global health equity.

Research interests include copyright law reform in South Africa, legal frameworks for human rights in technology, and the impact of international trade regimes on public health. Notable contributions address copyright exceptions for visually impaired individuals, the human right to research under international law, and the TRIPS waiver proposals during the pandemic.

Publications span academic journals (e.g., GRUR International, South African Branch of the International Law Association Bulletin), book chapters, and policy reports. Collaborations include the Academy of Science of South Africa and the International Commission of Jurists. Their work frequently critiques legal systems to promote equitable access to knowledge and technology.