13 February 2024
Hiran Geeganage graduated from our MAS in Transitional Justice, Human Rights and the Rule of Law back in 2021. As an Associate at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the Persons Deprived of Liberty Unit, he supports the development of a methodology for monitoring and reporting on the institution’s detention activities.
In this interview, he tells about the programme, fond memories and what it brought to his career.
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The strengths of the programme lie in its diverse range of courses, supported by a faculty composed of experienced lecturers. The interactive nature of the lectures encourages student engagement and fosters a welcoming environment for voicing opinions on various thematic areas. Additionally, the inclusion of practitioners and guest speakers enriches the learning experience by offering real-world insights and perspectives. Furthermore, the programme's global student body provides a unique opportunity for cross-cultural learning and exchange of experiences, both within and outside the classroom.
I joined the ICRC as an Associate in Geneva back in 2023. I am currently assigned to the Persons Deprived of Liberty Unit, where my primary responsibility is to support the development of a methodology for monitoring and reporting on the ICRC's detention activities globally. This involves coordinating with ICRC delegations worldwide, alongside my team, to analyze existing methodologies and develop a uniform approach that streamlines ICRC’s data collection process on detention. Additionally, I provide technical support for the Persons Deprived of Liberty Unit and assist in the organization of workshops, forums, and training sessions on detention.
My work requires an understanding of the Geneva Conventions and armed conflicts, which I acquired at the Geneva Academy. This allowed me to better comprehend the work of the ICRC in the contexts of international armed conflicts, non-international armed conflicts, and other forms of violence. Completing online courses, which were prerequisites for the job, was quite convenient for me since I had already obtained an in-depth understanding of the Geneva Conventions
The MTJ programme provided me with the opportunity to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, who spoke various languages, including French, Spanish, and German, in addition to English. I fondly remember the discussions we engaged in during lectures, group presentations, and while preparing assignments. These allowed us to share different perspectives on human rights and humanitarian issues, as well as insights into each other's cultures. Such interactions inspired me to embrace the challenge of learning another language. Encouraged by my French-speaking colleagues, I embarked on learning French and swiftly attained a B1 proficiency level within a short period. Subsequently, this proficiency facilitated my transition to joining the ICRC, where French proficiency is a crucial requirement.
I must acknowledge the extensive exposure this programme offers, not only in terms of academics but also through the inclusion of international students from diverse backgrounds. Geneva marked my first international experience, and the year at the Geneva Academy helped me acclimate to working within an organization of ICRC's calibre. Furthermore, I was delighted to discover that Geneva Academy’s alumni were employed in various organizations across Geneva. It was particularly enlightening to learn that both the predecessor for my role at the ICRC and my current supervisor had graduated from the MTJ programme in previous years.
I wholeheartedly recommend the MTJ programme to anyone pursuing a career in the humanitarian sector. I have personally witnessed the level of recognition for the Geneva Academy in my field of work. I strongly believe that this programme is a valuable stepping stone for anyone willing to pursue an international career in transitional justice, human rights, or the humanitarian sector.
Geneva Academy / Sandra Pointet
At our recent graduation ceremony, 104 students from our masters programs were honoured in the presence of faculty, staff, friends and family.
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Our research brief 'Neurotechnology - Integrating Human Rights in Regulation' examines the human rights challenges posed by the rapid development of neurotechnology.
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This training course will examine how the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights have been utilized to advance the concept of business respect for human rights throughout the UN system, the impact of the Guiding Principles on other international organizations, as well as the impact of standards and guidance developed by these different bodies.
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This training course, specifically designed for staff of city and regional governments, will explore the means and mechanisms through which local and regional governments can interact with and integrate the recommendations of international human rights bodies in their concrete work at the local level.
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This project addresses the human rights implications stemming from the development of neurotechnology for commercial, non-therapeutic ends, and is based on a partnership between the Geneva Academy, the Geneva University Neurocentre and the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee.
Olivier Chamard / Geneva Academy
The Treaty Body Members’ Platform connects experts in UN treaty bodies with each other as well as with Geneva-based practitioners, academics and diplomats to share expertise, exchange views on topical questions and develop synergies.
Geneva Academy
Geneva Academy