EXPERTISE

Environmental and Climate Law, Indigenous Rights, Climate Justice

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Alison Anitawaru Cole

(Ngāruahine, Ngāti Ruanui, Taranaki Whānui, Ngā Puhi)

Kaiwhakahaere Panoni Āhuarangi | Climate Change Consultant

Alison, a leading climate change consultant, combines environmental law and mātāpono Māori principles. Formerly a UN war crimes investigator and having worked previously with Aotearoa New Zealand’s Climate Change Commission, she integrates mātauranga Māori with scientific research in her PhD studies on climate justice. Her expertise spans international law, indigenous rights, and policy advocacy.


Vision and Approach:

Alison envisions a future where legal and policy frameworks genuinely reflect the integration of indigenous knowledge with scientific advancements in combatting climate change. Her approach is grounded in a deep respect for the land and its people, aiming to foster a climate-positive future through innovative, inclusive, and effective strategies.

Academic Background

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Doctor of Philosophy (candidate) - PhD, Climate Law

Victoria University of Wellington

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Master of Laws (LL.M.), International Law and Legal Studies

Harvard Law School

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Master of Arts (M.A.), First Class Honors

University of Cambridge

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Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

University of Cambridge

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Erasmus Exchange, Human Rights

Utrecht University 

01 Professional Journey

Alison's professional experience reflects a broad spectrum of roles that highlight her commitment to global challenges. Her career has included critical engagements in international law, indigenous rights, and climate policy advocacy. Her work has been instrumental in developing strategies that bridge legal frameworks with indigenous perspectives, showcasing her ability to navigate complex issues with nuance and expertise.



02 Key Achievements

 Multidisciplinary Expertise

Alison's work encompasses a unique combination of legal, environmental, and indigenous knowledge, contributing to her recognition as a leading consultant in climate change..


Policy Advocacy

She has been pivotal in advocating for policies that not only tackle the technical aspects of climate change but also respect and incorporate mātauranga Māori, leading to innovative and culturally sensitive approaches.


Leadership in Climate Justice

Her ongoing research and involvement in climate justice have positioned her as a thought leader in integrating legal and policy frameworks with scientific and indigenous knowledge.

03 Current Focus

Advocacy and Policy Development

Alison continues to advocate for climate change policies that integrate mātauranga Māori, aiming to influence both national and international legal frameworks.


Academic Contributions

Through her research and academic engagements, Alison contributes to the discourse on climate law, indigenous rights, and the intersections with human rights.


Capacity Building

She is committed to enhancing understanding and implementation of climate solutions that are respectful of indigenous knowledge and rights.


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