I have been in India since June 5, 2010, working for the Commonwealth Human Rights Intiative (CHRI) in New Delhi.

I think it is by random that the interns are placed in their respective departments at CHRI. Why else would an English major, such as myself, be placed with the Rights to Information (RTI) team, where knowledge of the law is an absolute must, and who has just finished a presentation on the Canadian Supreme Court ruling on the relationship between the Access to Information Act and the Constitution? Or why a law student, who has been hungry for just such a case as this, has instead been writing articles on Uganda… yes writing.

I point this out because the law student I speak about was my flat mate, who I befriended, and who was extremely frustrated in her lack of law-related work. This was fueled by my asking her for advice on how to prepare a case brief, and how best to present the case. Sorry Karen, but I do thank you for your great advice.

That said, I do not share Karen’s frustration (although I must admit, this was not the case at first when my research was continually re-routed by ever present legal-jargin roadblocks). In fact, my feelings are quite opposite. I am grateful to be placed with such a knowledgeable, dynamic team consisting of some of the best people I have ever met. I have been kept busy with challenging assignments, and if I run head first into a cloud of confusion, one or all of the team members are there to pull me out. Working with such a team is a humbling experience as I continually worry I won’t meet their expectations, and I am thoroughly pleased when I do.

This opportunity has caused me to consider other avenues in postgraduate studies to which I hadn’t originally given thought—in particular law. This is something Maja Daruwala, the director of CHRI, suggested I consider. She said international development is based on knowledge of the law, and this becomes apparent watching the every day workings of CHRI.

However, it didn’t take me long to realize that law is not my preferred choice, so I am following my original plan but with more wisdom and insight to what path to take. Sanchita, a member of the RTI team, is starting Oxford in September. She has inspired me to also apply since it has a very reputable International Development department. Had it not been for her advice, I would not have considered Oxford. Had it not been for Maja’s suggestion, I would not feel so confident in my future direction.

I think we are offered many things in life that can solidify or alter our perceptions. It is a question of whether we choose to take a bite, or not. This is one opportunity I am so very glad I accepted.

I leave this blog entry with a little bit more food for thought: Canada’s Access to Information Act was passed in 1983, and since that time has had no amendments. The Act needs reform. CHRI has outlined these much needed reformations, but the Harper government prefers to hide behind a veil of secrecy via the outdated Act’s blanket exemptions. The June 17, 2010 Supreme Court ruling on Access to Information as not a consitutional right adds yet another layer to this veil.

Categorie : Inde, Durant le stage // Faire un commentaire »