POSTPONED - Reproductive Autonomy, Protection from Gender Inequality and the Rule of Law: Evolving Jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights

Please note that this even has been postponed until further notice. 

The Law Faculty is honoured to welcome Judge Ivana Jelić, Vice-President of the European Court of Human Rights, for a public lecture on Monday, 26 October.

As one of the most senior judges serving on Europe's foremost human rights tribunal, Judge Jelić occupies a leading position within an institution whose jurisprudence has shaped the development of democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights across the continent. 

Abstract

How effectively does the European Convention on Human Rights protect reproductive autonomy and address gender inequality in an evolving legal and political landscape? What role do legal certainty, judicial independence and the rule of law play in securing women’s rights? 

This lecture examines the evolving jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights on reproductive autonomy, gender equality and the protection of fundamental rights. Its central argument is that the effective protection of women’s rights depends not only on the recognition of substantive rights, but also on the strength of the institutional and legal guarantees that make those rights meaningful in practice. 

Drawing on key judgments, the lecture explores the scope of States’ positive obligations to safeguard bodily integrity, personal autonomy and human dignity, while addressing the challenges posed by legal uncertainty, institutional shortcomings and discriminatory practices. It considers the rule of law and judicial independence not merely as institutional principles, but as essential conditions for the effective enjoyment of human rights, particularly where reproductive choices and gender equality are at stake. 

This event offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from a jurist at the highest level of international adjudication. Students with interests in human rights, public law, comparative constitutional law, international law, and legal practice will gain unique insight into the challenges and responsibilities of judging some of the most consequential cases of our time.  

Attendance is free and all are welcome. 

Those wishing to learn more about the event are invited to contact the Faculty's Equality and Diversity team at equalityanddiversity@law.ox.ac.uk.