Kofi Annan and Bonavero Institute Opening

Flagship Events at the Bonavero Institute

Kofi Annan with Professor Kate O'Regan, Director of the Bonavero Institute

Baroness Helena Kennedy QC and Kofi Annan

In June 2018 the Bonavero Institute was opened formally by the late Kofi Annan, Secretary General of the United Nations (1997 - 2006) and Nobel Peace Prize winner (2001). A key aim of the Bonavero Institute is to engage in research on some of the most pressing issues facing our world, which include conflict and wars, environmental degradation and climate change, persistent gender and racial inequality, contemporary threats to democracy, human trafficking and violence against women and children.  During the course of his remarks, Mr Annan observed - 

“I have no doubt that the scholarship and imagination that the Bonavero Institute will stimulate, and the outreach to civil society that it has put at the heart of its mission, will help realise the ultimate promise of human rights - creating a better world for all humankind.”

Mr Annan also opened the newly completed Hands Building.  As well as accommodation for the Bonavero Institute, the Hands Building contains student-study bedrooms and the Sir Joseph Hotung Auditorium, which spans the two lower floors, and a Reading Room on the lower ground floor to accommodate the Institute's visiting academics. 

Baroness Helena Kennedy QC, former Principal of Mansfield (2010 - 2018), was the driving force behind the establishment of the Bonavero Institute.  When she became Principal, one of her key goals was to promote research and engagement with global, regional and local human rights issues across the University.

‘It was always my dream to create a world class incubator for the development of ideas around the rule of law and human rights and to create a new generation of lawyers committed to these crucial ideals.’

As well as addressing students, faculty members and visitors, Mr Annan took part in a live question and answer session with students.