LEGAL EXCELLENCE: Katherine O’Regan receives George Bizos Human Rights Award, warns of shift to authoritarianism
On 15 October, former Constitutional Court Justice Katherine O’Regan received the George Bizos Human Rights Award, reflecting on the project of democracy and urging resistance to rising authoritarianism.
On 15 October, former Constitutional Court Justice Katherine O’Regan was awarded the fifth George Bizos Human Rights Award by the Legal Resources Centre for her unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights. George Bizos, a former refugee who served on Nelson Mandela's defence team, established the award to recognise individuals who embody the values of George Bizos.
O’Regan, who began her career as a cub reporter in apartheid-era South Africa, has held various roles in the legal profession, including practising law, teaching, and serving on the Constitutional Court. She reflected on her extensive career, noting the value of intergenerational learning within the profession. O’Regan warned that authoritarianism was on the rise globally, with 74% of the world's population now living under autocratic regimes.
She emphasised that resisting authoritarianism requires a tailored approach based on local contexts, independent courts, strong constitutional frameworks, and robust civil society. O’Regan's award-winning career and insights shed light on the ongoing struggle for democracy in the face of rising authoritarianism.
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