Politics Weekly UK Starmer v Starmer: why is the former human rights lawyer so cautious about defending human rights? – from The Audio Long Read
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Dec 29, 2025 Simon Darwen, a professional narrator and voice artist, explores the dual nature of Prime Minister Starmer as both a dedicated lawyer and a cautious politician. The discussion reveals the mixed record of Labour on human rights, highlighting NGO reactions to Starmer's political shifts. Darwen delves into the complexities of human rights debates, touching on issues like Gaza and the tensions within Starmer's cabinet. The episode examines the impact of global inequalities on human rights enforcement and reflects on the lessons from New Labour's approach.
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Lawyer Turned Politician With Divided Priorities
- Keir Starmer has deep human rights credentials and has litigated at the highest international levels.
- Yet his political persona sometimes conflicts with his legal commitments, creating a split approach in government.
Restoring Britain’s Human Rights Credibility
- Some rights experts praise Labour for restoring credibility after recent governments.
- Philippe Sands and Connor Gearty credit Starmer's stewardship for improved international engagement.
NGO Frustration With Government Tone
- A human rights campaigner told the author that Starmer's promise to put rights at the heart of government was "the biggest load of crap".
- NGO staff described ministers as brittle and dismissive in private meetings.
