Sheila Paylan

Sheila Paylan

Sheila Paylan is an international criminal lawyer, war crimes investigator, human rights and gender expert, and former legal advisor to the United Nations. She spent more than 15 years advising the judges and senior officials of various UN-backed international criminal tribunals, including for Rwanda, the former Yugoslavia, and the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia. From 2019 to 2021, she was appointed by the UN Office of High Commissioner for Human Rights as the Legal Advisor and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Specialist to a Team of International Experts mandated to assist the judicial and military authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo with investigating and prosecuting war crimes, crimes against humanity, and gross human rights violations.

Now based in Yerevan, she regularly consults for a variety of international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, and governments. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Bachelor of Civil Law, and a Juris Doctorate from McGill University, as well as an Master of Laws specializing in Public International Law from the University of London, and has published extensively on the subjects of international justice, remedial secession, and the Responsibility to Protect.

Pride and Nemesis

Pride and Nemesis

In the face of mounting concessions to Azerbaijan, Sheila Paylan argues that Armenia risks trading dignity for illusionary peace and explores the fine line between pragmatism and surrender, and why national self-respect must never be collateral.

Party of One

Party of One

In this deeply personal reflection, Sheila Paylan challenges cultural norms and redefines autonomy, asserting that womanhood should not be predominantly defined by motherhood. Instead, she advocates for the freedom to craft a meaningful life on one's own terms, embracing a broad spectrum of female identities and experiences.

Are You Sure That We Are Awake?

Are You Sure That We Are Awake?

In a world increasingly shaped by propaganda, disinformation, and spectacle-driven politics, staying awake, both literally and figuratively, has never been more critical. In this month’s column, Sheila Paylan explores the urgency of reclaiming reality in an era of digital illusions.

One Year Down

One Year Down

"Unleashed" turns one, marking a year of storytelling, self-discovery, and deep engagement. Reflecting on the past year's articles, Sheila Paylan revisits personal and cultural themes, embracing growth, vulnerability, and the power of expression while looking forward to another year of breaking boundaries and embracing authenticity.

Ride the Wave

Ride the Wave

Grappling with the “New World Disorder” following Donald Trump’s return to office and his sweeping policy changes, Sheila Paylan draws on her personal battles and urges us to harness historical wisdom and enduring human spirit to navigate these turbulent times.

Fires and Fascists , Sheila Paylan

Fires and Fascists

As wildfires ravage Los Angeles, exposing unpreparedness and policy failures, parallels emerge with Armenia's challenges amid escalating threats by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Sheila Paylan highlights the need for vigilance and readiness against both natural disasters and geopolitical crises.

New Year’s Revolutions

New Year’s Revolutions

Reimagining resolutions as personal uprisings, Sheila Paylan reflects on a life-changing typo, and explores how small, intentional steps can ignite change, turning aspirations into lasting revolutions for growth, fulfillment and reinvention.

Private: Borderline

Borderline

In Kirants, a small village on Armenia’s northeastern border, ancient monasteries, a school with a bomb shelter, and a military base coexist. Sheila Paylan explores the physical and emotional boundaries that define security, identity and resilience in a fragile landscape.

Sheila Paylan, Praise the Fuss

Praise the Fuss

Reflecting on her personal journey from skepticism to embracing gratitude, Sheila Paylan explores the transformative power of thankfulness, the mental health benefits of practicing it daily, and how celebrating Thanksgiving in a community has redefined her perspective on the holiday.

Give and Take, Sheila Paylan

Give and Take

Exploring the cultural dynamics of generosity, Sheila Paylan reflects on Armenian hospitality rituals, global norms around paying the bill, and the delicate balance of giving and receiving. A heartfelt look at love, reciprocity and human connection.

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