Patricia Hynes, Professor of Social Justice in the University’s Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice, is one of 47 leading social scientists who have received the award for the excellence and impact of their work and their wider contributions to the social sciences for public benefit.
Professor Hynes is currently conducting research in partnership with Every Child Protected Against Trafficking (ECPAT) UK, looking at the need to transform systems and outcomes of care and protection for children and young people following human trafficking or modern slavery.
She has previously worked with refugees in Southeast Asia, interviewing new arrivals at refugee camps on the Thailand-Burma border to gain knowledge of human rights violations inside Burma.
Since returning to the UK, Prof Hynes has spent the last decade researching human trafficking of adults and children.
Professor Hynes said: “I am thrilled to have been nominated as a Fellow for my work in applied social sciences. For me the social sciences are essential to understanding inequalities of rights and the gulf between human rights ideals and the lived experiences of many across the world.”
“The social sciences give us the tools to understand why those forced to migrate often fall between the cracks of nation-state provision when it comes to their rights. The social sciences also give us with the tools to impact policy in this area.”
“I am excited to be joining this national academy of academics and practitioners and being part of this dynamic and learned community.”
The Academy’s Fellowship comprises distinguished social scientists from academia and the public, private and third sectors. They are drawn from varied backgrounds, disciplines and institutions from across the UK and internationally.
Many are making exceptional contributions to tackling current and critical issues facing the UK economy, local communities and places, and beyond.
Will Hutton, President of the Academy of Social Sciences, said: "The Academy of Social Sciences is delighted to welcome the Spring 2022 group of new Fellows to join our ranks - representing an excellent range of highly distinguished social scientists. We look forward to engaging with them in our work."
