MA Human Rights Programme Opening

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With an immense amount of homesickness, mixed emotions, and gratitude, my first 15 days in Germany passed by, and the time finally came for the official programme opening. It marked the beginning of a well-planned, long-cherished journey: a Master’s in Human Rights at one of the world’s most renowned and prestigious institutions, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU). 

Nürnberg, the city where I would spend the next two years, is deeply intertwined with the history of human rights. Its significance lies in both its tragic past and its transformation. It is the city of the infamous Nürnberg Trials, where, in the aftermath of World War II, the principles of international human rights and justice were redefined. Today, Nürnberg stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and progress in human rights. It serves as the perfect backdrop for studying the subject that aims to challenge injustice and protect human dignity. 

 

Why Friedrich-Alexander University? 

If you’re reading this blog on your laptop, I urge you to open another browser tab and search for "Master’s in Human Rights." You’ll quickly notice that FAU is among the top references. Now, search "FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg," and you’ll begin to see why this university is so special. 

For me, the interdisciplinary approach of the programme, which connects law, political science, philosophy, and sociology, was one of the main reasons for choosing FAU. The university's reputation for fostering research engagement, academic excellence, and a commitment to global collaboration made it even more compelling. Additionally, FAU’s location in Nürnberg, with its historical significance and rich academic resources like the German Human Rights Institute, was a decisive factor. Being accepted into this programme felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

 

The Programme Orientation:  

On October 14, 2024, we officially started our journey with the programme orientation. I walked into the classroom feeling both excitement and nervousness, knowing I was about to meet a group of people who would become an integral part of this experience. 

Our cohort was diverse, representing practitioners and aspiring human rights defenders from across the globe. From Belarus to the USA, from Bangladesh to Iran, every single person brought a unique story, perspective, and expertise. As we introduced ourselves, sharing our areas of interest and professional backgrounds, I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. 

Here I was, sitting among people who had already made a difference in their respective fields—lawyers, activists, academics, and policymakers—all united by a common passion for human rights. Listening to their stories, I realized just how special this opportunity was. It wasn’t just about the academic knowledge or the lectures; it was about learning from these inspiring individuals and the experiences they carried with them. 

The journey had officially started, and I knew this was going to be one of the most transformative chapters of my life.  

This is the beginning of a dream realized, and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds. 






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