About
Prof Bonita Meyersfeld is an accomplished figure known for her extensive work in human rights, with a particular focus on gender and the law. In 2019, she received the Knight in the National Order of Merit from the Republic of France in recognition of her role in addressing gender-based violence.
Bonita's work bridges the gap between legal theory and human rights practice. She is not only an established NRF C1-rated researcher, but a practising advocate of the High Court of South Africa. Her areas of specialty include women's rights, international law, corporate accountability and animal law.
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Bonita's practise at the Johannesburg Bar sees her further serving those who have been rendered vulnerable and marginalised. She has already appeared before the Constitutional Court of South Africa as well as the International Criminal Court.
Education
2003 - 2006
Yale Law School
Doctorate (LLD) in International Law and Violence against Women
2002 - 2003
Yale Law School
Master of Laws (LLM)
1998 - 1999
University of the Witwatersrand
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Career highlights
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Awarded the Knight in the National Order of Merit by the Republic of France (2019)
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Served as Director of the Centre for Applied Legal Studies (2012 - 2017)
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Appointed as an expert by the United Nations Working Group on Business and Human Rights (2015)
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Awarded a United Nations tender to lead a Global South research coalition on National Action Plans (2013)
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Served as the Founder and Chair of the Board of Lawyers against Abuse (2011 - 2020)
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Appointed African Lead Consultant on the Due Diligence Project, in association with the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women (2010)