Class of 2025: Zeynep Baysar

For Zeynep Baysar, Essex’s “outstanding” reputation in human rights law meant there was no doubt about where she should study her masters.

After completing an undergraduate degree in Law, Zeynep was keen to apply her knowledge alongside further studying.

And Essex’s Human Rights Centre Clinic offered the perfect platform for her to gain real-world experience.

“It wasn’t just about learning human rights law in theory, “ Zeynep says of the clinic, which allows students to work on real-world human rights issues alongside academics.

“It was about engaging with real cases, conducting impactful research, and making meaningful contributions.

“Witnessing the real-world impact of our work has been incredibly fulfilling.

“The friendships I built along the way also made my time really special.

“From late-night studying to the conversations that challenged my perspectives - and somehow still finding time to laugh - it was all part of the journey.”

Zeynep has been working with Professor Ahmed Shaheed on his Countering Islamophobia research project.

Her responsibilities include conducting legal research, organising conferences and events, and analysing how different legal systems address Islamophobia.

She said: “Given the increasing global concerns about Islamophobia, being part of this initiative has been both deeply insightful and incredibly rewarding.

“Working with Dr Shaheed—one of the kindest and most knowledgeable and experienced Human Rights lawyers I’ve met—has been an absolute honour.”

Zeynep says her time studying an LLM in International Human Rights Law taught her to approach human rights issues with both legal precision and empathy.

She has also strengthened her research skills, as well as gained valuable knowledge in planning and executing academic events. Zeynep, who is originally from Ankara, Turkey, is currently working as a Research Officer on the Countering Islamophobia project and hopes to study a PhD in Human Rights in the years to come.

Reflecting on her time at Essex, Zeynep said: “If you're looking for a university where you’ll be challenged intellectually, supported by world-class academics, and given the opportunity to engage with real-world human rights issues, Essex is the place to be.

“The international atmosphere, strong research opportunities, and beautiful campus all add to the experience.

“Being an Essex Mafia is a pleasure.”