RGNUL, Punjab Organises International Conference On “Shifting Paradigm Of Human Rights In The 21st Century"

The 21st century has ushered in transformative shifts in political, social, economic, and technological landscapes, drastically altering how human rights are perceived and protected. With emerging advancements like Artificial Intelligence, digital governance, and cyber ecosystems, new complexities around privacy, surveillance, and data control have surfaced. Traditional human rights concerns such as social inequality, discrimination, gender justice, minority rights, and access to justice continue to require robust legal responses, while newer challenges demand an adaptive and dynamic rights-oriented discourse.

Recognizing these evolving realities, the International Conference aims to bring together eminent thought leaders, academicians, judicial luminaries, policymakers, students, research scholars, civil society activists, and international experts to deliberate on the recalibration of rights frameworks suited to modern times. The conference will feature rigorous academic sessions, keynote addresses, plenary discussions, and paper presentations focusing on wide-ranging thematic concerns, including but not limited to:

• Human Rights and the Constitution of India
• Human Rights in the Digital Age
• AI, Digital Surveillance, and Human Rights
• Gender Equity, Women Empowerment, and Human Rights
• Interface between Environment and Human Rights
• Youth and Human Rights
• Rights of Indigenous Communities
• Minority Rights and Protection Mechanisms
• Human Rights of Sex Workers: Policy and Legal Gaps
• Disability Rights and the Legal Framework
• Human Rights and Terrorism: Balancing Security and Liberty
• Labour Rights in the Digital Workplace and Gig Economy
• Re-evaluating the Role of International Human Rights Institutions in the Digital World

These themes collectively aim at addressing existing barriers and exploring futuristic frameworks for human rights governance in India and beyond.

RGNUL is privileged to host an esteemed panel of chief guests and distinguished speakers. The University will welcome Mr. Justice Dinesh Maheshwari, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India and Chairman of the Law Commission of India, as the Chief Guest. His extensive judicial experience and scholarly insight into constitutional and human rights jurisprudence will greatly enrich the academic discourse of the conference.

Adding further eminence to the event, Justice Manjari Nehru Kaul, Former Judge of the Punjab & Haryana High Court, will grace the occasion with her profound perspective on gender justice, rights of vulnerable groups, and judicial interpretations shaping human rights protections in India.

The conference will also host Mrs. Mamta Kumari, Member, National Commission for Women, whose work and advocacy for women's rights and empowerment offer significant contributions to contemporary rights reforms. Air Marshal Mr. Kulwant Singh Gill (Retd.), with his illustrious service in the Indian Air Force, will bring valuable perspectives on national security, strategic policies, and human dignity in conflict zones.

Renowned academic leader Mr. Manpreet Singh Manna, Former Vice-Chancellor, Chandigarh University and a noted educationist, will contribute to conversations on youth empowerment, education, and digital literacy as catalysts of human rights realization. Prof. (Dr.) Jai Shankar Singh, Vice-Chancellor, RGNUL, Punjab, will deliver the presidential address and provide institutional guidance toward strengthening the university's commitment to global human rights education and reform.

Speaking about the conference, Prof. (Dr.) Jai Shankar Singh stated that “Human rights today stand at a critical crossroads. With technology driving unprecedented opportunities and challenges, we must revisit existing legal protections and adopt innovative, inclusive, and more responsive approaches. This conference is a collective step toward advancing the cause of human dignity and justice in a rapidly changing world.” His vision underscores the University's aspiration to serve as a think-tank addressing evolving human rights issues.

The conference anticipates enthusiastic participation from scholars across leading universities, international delegates, human rights defenders, and institutional representatives who will engage in constructive dialogue that will shape academic and governance perspectives on the future of human rights. Selected research papers will also be considered for publication in reputed legal journals and conference proceedings, providing lasting value to human rights scholarship.

With global attention turning toward sustainable development, rights of marginalized communities, democratic accountability, and ethical technological governance, this conference is expected to culminate in meaningful recommendations. These outcomes may assist governments, institutions, and policymakers in developing rights-centric laws and frameworks while promoting informed civic engagement.

RGNUL remains steadfast in its mission to promote justice-oriented education and foster strong academic collaborations. This international conference continues its legacy of scholarly excellence, ensuring that human rights discourse evolves in resonance with contemporary realities and constitutional aspirations.