Bridging Law and Humanity: Stefan Ziegler on Advocacy and Film

In this thought-provoking episode, Shivali Yadav engages with Stefan Ziegler, a humanitarian advocate and award-winning documentary filmmaker with over 25 years of experience in international law and diplomacy. Having worked with organizations like UNRWA, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the EU, Ziegler sheds light on the intersection of humanitarianism, advocacy, and film in shaping global narratives.Through an insightful discussion, we explore Ziegler’s experiences in conflict zones such as Palestine and Ukraine, the instrumentalization of humanitarian aid, and the role of advocacy in international law. He also delves into the power of documentary filmmaking as a tool for awareness and action, highlighting his films Broken: A Palestinian Journey Through International Law and The Mandate. This episode unpacks how international law is not just for diplomats and judges but is ultimately owned by civil society, and how education and participatory research can bridge the gap between legal frameworks and real-world impact.