Shabnam Salehi

Shabnam Salehi is a visiting lecturer and researcher at the University of Ottawa, where she continues her lifelong commitment to human rights and gender equality. In her current role, Shabnam is engaged in research and writing on pressing human rights issues, participating in guest lectures, presentations, and discussions, and contributing to courses related to human rights and immigration.

Affiliated with the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs and the Human Rights Education Research Centre at the University of Ottawa, Shabnam’s work aligns with the institution’s mission to foster a deeper understanding of global affairs and promote human rights. Her research and advocacy support several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including gender equality (SDG 5), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16).

Shabnam began her academic career in 2012 as an assistant professor at Kabul University, where she lectured on public policy focusing on human rights and gender equality. Her notable career achievements include leading the women’s rights unit as women’s rights commissioner at the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) from 2019 to 2021. In this role, she implemented critical interventions to protect and promote women’s rights, advocating for reforms in laws related to marriage, divorce, and sexual harassment. Driven by a profound commitment to justice and equality, Shabnam has dedicated her career to advancing the rights of women and marginalized groups. Her values and mission are rooted in the belief that every individual deserves to live with dignity and without fear of discrimination.

Shabnam is a Ph.D. student in International Law at Carleton University and holds a Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) and a Bachelor of Law and Political Science from Kabul University. Her extensive academic background and hands-on experience make her a formidable advocate for human rights and a respected figure in her field.