Testimony of Mariam Mandekov, Winner of the Essay Competition in 2023

The winner of the essay competition 2023 is Mariam Mandekov.

The theme of the competition was:
The interlinkages between human rights protection and peace and security. 

Mariam’s essay was a very interesting, timely and relevant essay on the potential for future application of the Responsibility to Protect, firmly positioned in the nexus of human rights-peace-security. 

Testimony of Mariam Mandekov:
”Participating in the Student Essay Competition organized by the Swedish Foundation for Human Rights and University College Stockholm has been an unparalleled highlight of my academic journey. The competition, with its insightful themes and inclusive approach to various academic disciplines, provided me with a unique platform to delve into the intricate interplay between human rights, peace, and security.

This competition is more than just a writing challenge; it’s an invitation for students from diverse fields, including law, political science, peace and conflict studies, and more, to contribute their perspectives to a critical discourse. The opportunity to explore my chosen topic, examining the interlinkages between human rights protection and peace and security, has been intellectually enriching and has broadened my understanding of the complex issues our world faces.

The chance to have my essay evaluated by a jury of experts within the realms of human rights, peace, and security was both humbling and gratifying. Being selected as the winner of the 2023 competition is an honor that goes beyond recognition—it is an affirmation of the importance of fostering dialogue and understanding in the pursuit of a more just and peaceful world. The prospect of attending the Swedish Forum for Human Rights (Mänskliga Rättighetsdagarna) in Helsingborg was a great opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals, experts, and practitioners in the field.

I am immensely grateful to the Swedish Foundation for Human Rights and University College Stockholm for organizing this competition and for providing a platform that encourages students to explore, analyze, and contribute to the discourse on human rights, peace, and security.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the jury, the organizers, and everyone involved in making this competition a transformative experience for students like myself.”