From Wyoming to the Hague: Becoming an International Human Rights Lawyer

Haydée Dijkstal grew up in Wyoming, but frequent travel to visit the families of her Puerto Rican mother and Dutch father piqued her interest in international relations at a young age. In fact, it led her all the way to The Hague and a career in international criminal law and human rights law.

In this episode, Haydée shares her path to international legal practice, and how she became a barrister in the U.K. She also gives us a primer on the workings of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the challenges of criminal and human rights investigations. Perpetually immersed in the world’s tragedies, Haydee explains how representing victims and the accused makes her a better attorney, and the huge roles empathy and optimism play in her practice. You won’t want to miss a second with this inspiring sticky lawyer.