Nadia
Tel: -
| Email:-| www.linkedin.com/in/nadia-shah-
Summary
Human Rights Practitioner with extensive experience in legal research, governance, and
policy development. With an LLM degree in International Human Rights Law, I have
conducted in-depth research on the intersection of human rights, social justice, and legal
frameworks in Pakistan.
Professional Experience
Research Consultant (Law & Governance) – National Commission on the Status of
Women (UNFPA Funded Project)
October 2024 – March 25
Developed a comprehensive policy report on gender parity that directly informed legislative
dialogues and policy recommendations on inclusive governance in the Islamabad Capital
Territory. The report’s evidence-based findings led to the identification of key gender gaps in
political leadership, control targeted interventions by relevant government bodies. As a
result, the report contributed to the design of institutional strategies aimed at increasing
women’s participation in decision-making roles, fostering a more gender-responsive and
equitable governance framework.
Young Expert – Promotion of Human Rights in Pakistan (EU Project)
July 2020 – July 2022
Established a policy roadmap that enabled local government authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan to
systematically address human rights violations, with a specific focus on improving
protections for marginalized groups, including women and children. Co-authored the Rules
of Business for the Gilgit-Baltistan Child Protection Act, launching the region’s first
coordinated child protection services, and drafted gender-responsive frameworks on
workplace harassment and women’s rights, strengthening institutional safeguards and
improving reporting mechanisms and creating a safer environment for vulnerable
populations. Through this research-driven advocacy, facilitated informed decision-making
among policymakers and civil society actors, contributing to the legal alignment of GilgitBaltistan’s human rights frameworks with national legislation and international
commitments, thereby promoting systemic reforms and long-term social justice outcomes.
• Research Assistant – Centre for Labour Research, Pakistan
February 2020 – June 2020
Conducted in-depth research on labor rights issues and policy gaps in Pakistan, providing
valuable insights for labor law reforms. I developed policy briefs for decision-makers,
contributing to more inclusive legislative changes, and prepared reports on Pakistan’s
compliance with international labor standards, advocating for stronger protection of
workers' rights and alignment with global best practices.
Lawyer – District Court, Islamabad, Pakistan
Sep 2018 – Jan 2020
I provided legal representation in civil, criminal, and family law cases, ensuring fair outcomes
for clients. I conducted thorough legal research and drafted court submissions, supporting
case preparation and strategy. Additionally, I summarized landmark judgments, facilitating
legal proceedings and helping to shape informed decisions in court.
Education
Master of Laws (LLM) - International Human Rights Law
University of Sussex, UK | 2022 - 2023
• Developed research skills linking human rights law theory with policy and practice.
• Effectively communicated legal arguments and policy recommendations.
• Dissertation focused on the impact of international human rights law on minority rights in
Pakistan.
Bachelor of Laws (Hons) - Shariah & Law
International Islamic University, Pakistan | 2013 - 2018