EXPERTISE
Environmental and Climate Law, Indigenous Rights, Climate Justice
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
Doctor of Philosophy (candidate) - PhD, Climate Law
Victoria University of Wellington
Master of Laws (LL.M.), International Law and Legal Studies
Harvard Law School
Master of Arts (M.A.), First Class Honors
University of Cambridge
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
University of Cambridge
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.
