International Law PhD Student Barrie Sander has been awarded the Institute's Alumni Association Prize 2021 for his PhD thesis 'Doing justice to history: the construction of historical narratives within international criminal courts'.
The Institute's Alumni Association Prize was established by the Alumni Association to reward every year the most outstanding PhD thesis. This year, on 29 September, the prize was awarded to Barrie Sander, PhD in International Law, for his thesis 'Doing justice to history: the construction of historical narratives within international criminal courts'.
International criminal courts are increasingly expected to be the bearer of historical memory concerning mass atrocities and international crimes. In his dissertation, Barrie Sander examines which elements are included and foregrounded within, as well as marginalized and excluded, for the construction of historical narratives within international criminal courts. Drawing from insights from field theory, this dissertation analyses how criminal courts can shape and influence the historical narrative and mirror already existing relations in the international arena.
"It is a great honour to receive the Alumni Association Prize 2021 for my thesis, Doing Justice to History: The Construction of Historical Narratives within International Criminal Courts. It is well known that writing a thesis typically involves many solitary hours immersed in research and writing, but the reality is that the process would not be possible without the support, exchange of ideas, and critical input of a wide range of people and communities, both personal and professional. I am grateful to the Graduate Institute for providing me with such a vibrant space to reflect on the field of international criminal justice, including through opportunities to teach, engage with the PhD community in Geneva, and conduct research stays abroad. I would also like to express particular gratitude to my supervisor, Professor Andrea Bianchi, whose ongoing advice and guidance proved invaluable along this journey. Finally, I would like to thank my parents, whose constant love and support kept me going throughout the PhD process, especially during those moments when I had to confront the many stumbling blocks that almost inevitably arise during this type of project."