Srinagar, July 13: Continuing his trajectory of international recognition, Umar Masoodi, a young lawyer from Kashmir, has been selected for the Intensive Course in Human Rights hosted by the Norwegian Centre for Human Rights (NCHR) at the University of Oslo.
The course, to be held in Oslo from September 1–5, 2025, is one of the most sought-after short-term global human rights training programs and received an unprecedented 4,758 applications this year. Masoodi is among the very few selected participants who will also receive a full stipend to attend.
Currently engaged as a Research Assistant at the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. His professional role, paired with his academic background and grassroots advocacy, positioned him as a strong candidate for the NCHR program, which prioritizes diversity in experience and regional representation.
The NCHR Intensive Course is a rigorous, interdisciplinary program designed to equip professionals with a foundational understanding of international human rights law, enforcement mechanisms, and emerging global challenges. It brings together legal practitioners, public officials, civil society actors, academics, and independent institution representatives from around the world to foster cross-sectoral dialogue and collaboration.
Masoodi’s participation is fully funded by NORAD (Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation) covering international travel, accommodation, meals during the program, as well as a NOK 3,500 stipend to cover visa-related and incidental costs. The curriculum emphasizes participatory learning, group work, and real-world application of legal standards, with lectures delivered by globally renowned human rights scholars and experts.
His professional background and interest in international law made him a standout applicant for this interdisciplinary course, which is known for attracting legal professionals, civil society representatives, and public officials from diverse regions.
Organizers highlighted the course’s value as a platform for professional exchange and learning, stating that this year’s selection was particularly competitive. Participants are expected to complete preparatory readings and fully engage with the academic content and group exercises during the course.
“I’m grateful and honored to be selected for this unique international opportunity,” said Masoodi. “The chance to learn from and collaborate with peers and experts from around the world is something I value deeply.”
This marks another international achievement for Masoodi. In 2024, he completed advanced training in “business & human rights” at the Lucerne Academy for Human Rights Implementation in Switzerland.
Earlier this year in May, Masoodi was also selected for the beVisioneers Fellowship, a prestigious global program backed by Mercedes-Benz, which supports young changemakers working on sustainability and environmental projects.
He was also invited by the European Union to participate in the European Youth Event (EYE2025) at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France this year in June.
With a growing list of recognitions, Masoodi’s upcoming participation in the Oslo program marks another step in his journey. It also reflects a broader trend of young professionals from the region stepping into global policy and academic spaces with purpose and clarity of vision.
