Desert Island Discs
Harriet Wistrich, lawyer
Feb 16, 2025
Harriet Wistrich, a notable human rights lawyer, shares her inspiring journey from filmmaker to legal advocate for women. She discusses her landmark victories, including representing women who killed their abusers. The conversation addresses systemic failures in protecting victims of violence and the emotional weight of cases like that of John Warboys. Harriet reflects on her upbringing and influences, while also highlighting the role of music in advocacy. She humorously imagines life on a desert island, paired with her love for white wine and literature.
50:54
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Quick takeaways
- Harriet Wistrich emphasizes the importance of landmark legal victories in transforming societal attitudes towards violence against women and systemic injustices.
- She discusses the emotional challenges faced while advocating for women affected by domestic violence and the need for continued reform in the justice system.
Deep dives
Harriet Wistridge's Advocacy for Women's Rights
Harriet Wistridge is a prominent human rights lawyer who has spent over 25 years advocating for the rights of women and marginalized individuals. She has made significant contributions to landmark legal reforms, including the Sexual Offences Act and the Domestic Abuse Act, which address violence against women and systemic injustices. Her work started with the formation of the pressure group Justice for Women, which aimed to support women like Emma Humphreys, who was convicted of murder after killing her abusive pimp. Wistridge’s commitment stems from a belief that individual cases can lead to broader societal changes, and that legal victories provide vital support to survivors of violence.
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