Welcome to Brief Encounters: Law School & Beyond, a podcast by Project LLM. The series explores journeys of Indian professionals who have pursued legal education abroad. The goal is to bring out stories, experiences, and practical advice to inspire and guide others considering an overseas legal education.
Today our guest is Mr. Kaustubh Dighe. Mr. Dighe specializes in International Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law, Public International Law, and Public Policy. He recently completed his Advanced LL.M. in European and International Human Rights Law from Leiden University. Mr. Dighe also holds a BA LLB (Hons.) degree from Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Patiala.
With extensive experience working in the humanitarian and development sectors, including his roles at Professors Without Borders and Intersex Asia, Mr. Dighe brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
Was pursuing law always a part of your plan, or did your interest in the field develop gradually? Can you walk us through how your legal journey started?
Law was not always my plan; it was something I eventually chose. Initially, during grades 11 and 12, I was contemplating studying for a B.A. or taking the SAT to pursue international relations, as that was my goal. However, midway through grade 11, I realized that law might be a better way to approach my interest in human rights. The idea of using law as a tool for human rights advocacy appealed to me, so I shifted my focus from international relations to law.
You achieved excellent grades during your undergraduate studies at RGNUL. How important do you think academic performance is when applying for a master’s program, and how did it impact your journey?
I wouldn’t say that I focused on achieving top grades. It might seem that way, but I genuinely enjoyed working on projects and assignments, which contributed to my grades. For exams, I often had fun with the questions, writing what I wanted rather than what might yield the highest marks. While grades do play a role in applications, they are just one part of the overall profile. It’s more about the complete personality and experience that one presents.
How did your time at RGNUL shape your career interests? Were you clear on what field of law you wanted to pursue, and did you choose your internships accordingly?
From the beginning, I was drawn to human rights. At RGNUL, I applied to the Center for Advanced Study in Human Rights (CASHR) in my first year, and that set the direction for my interests. As for internships, they didn’t always align perfectly with my interests. I found them through online searches and cold emails. For instance, my first internship with Professors Without Borders came about through a direct email to the CEO. It took persistence and many cold emails to secure these opportunities.
Coming from Mumbai and pursuing your graduation in Punjab, how significant was the cultural shift, and how did you adapt to it? Any advice for undergraduates entering college now?
The cultural shift was quite significant. In Mumbai, people generally don’t concern themselves with aspects like socio-economic background, religion, or caste; the focus is more on daily routines like commuting and work. However, moving to Patiala was an eye-opener, as I interacted with people from diverse regions of India, including those from U.P. and Nepal. It exposed me to the socio-economic realities of other parts of the country.
It was a valuable experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me understand different perspectives. My advice to undergraduates is to step out of their comfort zones, explore different states, and challenge their preconceived notions. Engaging with diverse communities can be an enriching experience that broadens your understanding and appreciation of the country’s diversity.
When did you realize that pursuing a master’s degree was the right next step for you, and how early did you begin preparing for it?
I don’t believe there’s a fixed timeline for deciding whether to pursue a master’s degree. It’s more about logistical considerations, such as when to take English proficiency tests and other entrance exams. For me, the decision started forming around 2019 when I attended a summer school at Leiden University. That experience solidified my desire to study there. I began preparing my applications in my fourth year, and I applied around November-December, in my ninth semester. It’s essential to apply early, depending on the application cycles of different universities.
Do you think there’s a difference between going for a master’s right after college versus gaining some work experience first? What’s your recommendation?
It really depends on the individual’s situation. If you have considerable internship experience during your undergraduate years, it might be possible to take the leap immediately. However, if you lack substantial work experience, it may be beneficial to gain some before pursuing a master’s. The risk of going straight for a master’s is becoming overqualified but under-experienced, which can limit job opportunities. It’s essential to balance your education with work experience to ensure you don’t find yourself in a position where you’ve advanced academically but don’t meet the work experience criteria for jobs.
You were selected for a summer school in international criminal law at Leiden. How did that experience influence your academic and personal development?
The summer school was a complete paradigm shift for me. At Leiden, we had the privilege of learning from leading experts in the field, such as William Schabas, an authority on the law of genocide. We also had sessions on the crime of aggression led by individuals who represented the Netherlands during the Kampala amendments to the Rome Statute. This level of exposure was eye-opening.
The program also included practical exercises like conducting cross-examinations, which were taught by professionals working at the International Criminal Court (ICC). This hands-on experience was invaluable and showed me the depth of learning available when you have direct access to experts and practitioners in the field.
You chose international human rights law as your specialization. Why did you choose this focus over a general LL.M.?
I’ve always been inclined towards international human rights law. Public international law, including humanitarian law and refugee law, interests me, but I viewed international human rights law as the foundation that connects and influences these areas. It felt like the right specialization to build upon.
When applying, I only applied to two colleges: Trinity College Dublin, which had a general LL.M., and Leiden, which offered an advanced LL.M. in international human rights law. The advanced program at Leiden appealed to me because of its smaller class size and intensive course structure, which allowed for a more in-depth and specialized learning experience.
Could you share what resources or guidance you found most helpful when preparing your master’s application?
I didn’t use external consultants. I had experience from helping my brother and his friends with their applications, so I knew what to include in cover letters and SOPs. I believe in maintaining originality, so I didn’t follow any templates. Instead, I relied on a few seniors for feedback and my family for proofreading.
The key to writing an effective SOP is authenticity. It should answer two main questions: how you, as a student, can add value to the program and how the program or institution can add value to you and your career. Structuring your SOP around these questions helps create a strong and personal narrative.
What was it like studying at Leiden University, one of the oldest institutions in the Netherlands with a strong reputation in human rights law? How did the academic environment influence your approach to human rights law?
The academic environment at Leiden was incredible, largely because of the diverse batch of students. In my advanced LL.M. program, the age range varied from early 20s to late 60s, which meant that I was learning alongside individuals with vastly different experiences—lawyers, politicians, and professionals from all over the world, including Iran, Nigeria, and Mexico. This diversity enriched the classroom discussions, making them more about learning and exploring ideas rather than just completing the syllabus. It fundamentally changed my perspective on education, allowing me to grow not only as a student but also as a person.
Your thesis was titled “A Free Speech-Based, Bottom-Up Approach to Address Ongoing Violations at the ICC.” What institutional support did you receive in narrowing down this topic and conducting your research?
The thesis topic was ambitious, as it aimed to tackle enforcement issues within international human rights law using digital activism as a tool for compliance. I was fortunate to have Professor Carson Stone as my supervisor. His detailed feedback and support were instrumental in shaping my thesis. We had several thesis workshops that broke down the process—from writing proposals to structuring the research—which provided the logistical support needed. However, the main credit goes to Professor Stone, whose guidance helped navigate the complexities of my topic.
You had classes with prominent human rights experts. Could you share any memorable insights or interactions?
One of the most impactful classes was with Professor Helen Duffy, a giant in international human rights law. She practices across various international courts, including the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the European Court. Her anecdotes from high-profile cases, like those involving Guantanamo Bay or genocide cases in the Inter-American Court, were incredible. Her classes went beyond just finishing the syllabus; they were about learning from real-life experiences, which was invaluable for someone aspiring to practice in international human rights.
How did Leiden’s proximity to The Hague, the legal capital of the world, influence your experience?
Leiden’s proximity to The Hague provided unique opportunities to engage with international organizations and legal institutions. Our program included study trips to Strasbourg and Geneva, where we met judges, ambassadors, and alumni working at the European Court of Human Rights and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. These trips offered practical exposure and helped me connect with professionals in the field. Being so close to institutions like the International Court of Justice was inspiring and reminded me of the impact and possibilities in international law.
You’ve mentioned your involvement with Professors Without Borders. Could you elaborate on your role as a research fellow and your experience there?
Professors Without Borders was instrumental in my professional development. I worked closely with Dr. Caroline Martin, the CEO and co-founder, who was an incredible mentor. My role involved writing papers focused on higher education in India, including an analysis of the national education policy. The opportunity to explore critical issues like accessibility in higher education, and to receive insightful feedback from Dr. Martin, was a formative experience that shaped my understanding of educational policies and their impact.
What are your long-term career goals, and how do you believe your international background and exposure will help you achieve them?
I can’t predict the future, but I plan to follow wherever my passion for human rights takes me. I’m currently applying for jobs across various regions—from Baghdad to Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Europe. My aim is to work on the ground rather than being confined to an office writing commentary. While such commentary has its value, I prefer engaging with situations in person and directly addressing the issues.
In today’s time, where many prefer corporate jobs for stability, why are you so passionate about working in the humanitarian and development sectors?
I believe it’s a disservice to categorize people based on their choices. Many pursue corporate jobs due to their circumstances, and it’s not fair to judge them. My passion for human rights is about understanding people’s situations, their levels of privilege, and how these factors impact their access to fundamental rights. I don’t think earning money is inherently wrong; it’s necessary for survival. While social work is meaningful, there are practical realities we must acknowledge. My approach to human rights might differ from others, but it’s my way of contributing to the cause.
Pursuing an LL.M. can present significant financial challenges. Based on your experience, how can one effectively manage these challenges?
I may not be the best person for financial advice, but I can share how I approached it. The primary consideration should be the employability that the program offers. For fields like human rights law, job availability can depend on current global events and funding situations, which are often volatile. It’s crucial to plan for financial contingencies and have a backup plan in case you don’t secure a job immediately after graduation. Some countries, like the Netherlands, provide a one-year job search visa, but you must be prepared for the financial implications during that period, as part-time work may not be an option due to language barriers or legal restrictions.
The cost of living may also differ significantly from what is advertised on university websites. For instance, my accommodation cost was much higher than expected, and overall living expenses were around €1,000-€1,200 per month. Planning for such variations and securing scholarships, if possible, can help mitigate financial risks.
For students considering specializing in international human rights law, what skills or experiences would you recommend focusing on to build this niche?
International law is unique because it integrates elements from various legal systems—civil law, common law, and others. Therefore, the fewer preconceived notions you bring, the better. The basics of public international law are straightforward and can be learned from any introductory book. What matters most is the belief in the system, as international law is often criticized as ineffective. Skills like interpretation and understanding the hierarchy of laws are essential, but overall, it’s about being open to learning and adapting.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently when deciding to study abroad, and what advice would you offer to others considering this path?
Hindsight always seems clearer, and it’s easy to have regrets. However, those regrets shouldn’t be so significant that they make you question your decision entirely. It’s okay to make mistakes during the application process or not get into your dream college. The name of the college doesn’t define your career; it’s just the starting point.
For example, I was considering applying to places like the Geneva Academy, which may not have the same brand recognition as Harvard or Oxford. Even if you end up at a college that feels like a compromise, it’s only a difference in starting lines. The key is to work hard and make up for any perceived disadvantages. The effort you put in will eventually level the playing field.
(This transcript is based on the original interview’s audio. It is a refined version and may contain minor errors, omissions, or variations from the verbatim recording. For the guest’s exact inputs and sentiments, please listen to the podcast episode.)
