Professor Makau Mutua’s book launched

Kenyan-American Professor of Law Makau Mutua

Prof Makau Mutua’s new book, Human Rights Standards, was launched in Washington last week.

In the book, the writer traces the history of the human rights project.

The book by the legal scholar focuses on the deficits of the international order and how that order defines human rights.

The result is the first truly comprehensive critical look at the making of human rights norms and standards.

Siobhan McInerney-Lankford, a discussant at the book launch, said: I would like to join Alberto and Charles in thanking you for your important contribution to human rights legal scholarship.

“It was both a privilege and a pleasure to participate in the launch of your book which is a real tour de force.”

Pithy and Enlightening

Prof Makau thanked the discussants who attended the book launch.

“I would like in particular to express my gratitude to my two erudite discussants — Charles E Di Leva and Siobhan McInerney-Lankford.

“Your observations were pithy and very enlightening. I also want to express my thanks to Deputy General Counsel Alberto Ninio for gracing the launch with his presence.

“Last, but not least, the book launch would not have been possible without the initiative and direction of Anders Zeijlon, the Coordinator of the Nordic Trust Fund. It was his idea.”

Makau is a Distinguished Professor at SUNY Buffalo Law School, and is also the author of Kenya’s Quest for Democracy: Taming Leviathan and Human Rights: A Political and Cultural Critique.

He is also a regular columnist with The Standard on Sunday.