Spotlight of the Week: Professor Philip D. Jaffé – A Beacon of Children’s Rights and Advocacy

When it comes to championing the rights of children on a global scale, few individuals are as impactful as Professor Philip D. Jaffé. A trailblazer in the field of children’s rights, Professor Jaffé has dedicated his academic, professional, and personal life to advocating for the protection, participation, and well-being of children.

A Global Advocate for Children’s Rights

Elected in 2018 by States Parties in New York, Professor Jaffé currently serves as a member of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child. This prestigious position reflects his unwavering commitment to upholding and advancing the principles enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

Professor Jaffé’s contributions extend far beyond his role at the United Nations. As a clinical and forensic psychologist trained in Switzerland and the USA, his expertise encompasses critical issues such as:

• The protection of children from sexual abuse.
• Enhancing the participation of children in civil and criminal legal systems.
• Addressing the sensitive topic of detention and ensuring justice systems are child-friendly.

Pioneering Contributions to Child-Friendly Justice

A pivotal moment in his career was his role on the expert panel that authored the Council of Europe Child-Friendly Justice Guidelines in 2011. These guidelines have set a benchmark for ensuring that legal systems across Europe prioritize the needs and rights of children, emphasizing accessibility, dignity, and non-discrimination.

Founding the Swiss Centre of Expertise in Human Rights

Professor Jaffé was instrumental in the establishment of the Swiss Centre of Expertise in Human Rights, where he served as a board member and co-manager of the cluster on children and youth politics. This center has become a hub for policy development, research, and advocacy, strengthening Switzerland’s role in promoting human rights.

Academic Excellence and Community Engagement

Beyond his global advocacy, Professor Jaffé has left an indelible mark in academia. As a full professor at the University of Geneva, he founded the Centre for Children’s Rights Studies (CIDE), which he directed from 2008 to 2020. Under his leadership, the center became a beacon for interdisciplinary research and education, focusing on the holistic understanding of children’s rights.

However, Professor Jaffé’s vision of academic life transcends the traditional confines of teaching, research, and publishing. He emphasizes community engagement, striving to act as a science practitioner and educator who bridges the gap between academia and real-world application.

A Multidimensional Career

Despite his numerous roles, Professor Jaffé remains a practicing licensed psychotherapist and court-appointed expert witness, showcasing his dedication to clinical practice and justice. His consultancy work with governmental and non-governmental humanitarian organizations further demonstrates his commitment to creating a safer, more equitable world for children.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Professor Philip D. Jaffé’s legacy is one of passion, innovation, and dedication. Through his work, he not only safeguards the rights of children but also inspires the next generation of scholars, practitioners, and advocates to continue the fight for a world where every child’s voice is heard, and every child’s rights are protected.

As we shine this week’s spotlight on Professor Jaffé, we celebrate his contributions and draw inspiration from his tireless efforts to make the world a better place for children.