A British lawyer and academic who served as Deputy Legal Adviser to the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, known for resigning in protest over the Iraq War.
Elizabeth Wilmshurst is a renowned British lawyer and academic, best known for her courageous stand against the 2003 invasion of Iraq as the Deputy Legal Adviser at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the United Kingdom. Her resignation on March 20, 2003, three days after Lord Goldsmith's final advice to the British government reversed her legal opinion, sparked a heated debate on the legality of the war.
Elizabeth Wilmshurst was born on August 28, 1948. She received her early education at Clarendon School for Girls, a private boarding school. She then pursued a degree in law at King's College London, earning her LLB and AKC in 1969.
Wilmshurst was admitted as a solicitor in 1972 and joined the HM Diplomatic Service in 1974, where she worked as a legal advisor until her resignation in 2003. During her tenure, she played a crucial role in shaping international law, particularly in the area of international criminal law.
Wilmshurst is a prolific writer and has co-edited several publications on international criminal law, including the widely used "An Introduction to International Criminal Law and Procedure" with Robert Cryer, Hakan Friman, and Darryl Robinson. She is currently a Professor of International Law at University College London and a Distinguished Fellow of the International Law Programme at Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs.
On January 26, 2010, Wilmshurst gave evidence to the Iraq Inquiry, providing valuable insights into the legality of the 2003 invasion of Iraq and the advice given to then Foreign Secretary Jack Straw. Her testimony shed light on the intricate legal issues surrounding the war and highlighted the importance of upholding international law.
Elizabeth Wilmshurst's courage and conviction have inspired a generation of lawyers and international law scholars. Her work has not only shaped the discourse on international criminal law but has also contributed to the development of a more just and equitable international legal order. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of individual action in promoting peace, justice, and human rights.
In addition to her CMG appointment in 1998, Wilmshurst has received several honors and awards for her contributions to international law. She was made an Honorary Queen's Counsel (QC Hon) in recognition of her outstanding service to the field.
Elizabeth Wilmshurst's remarkable career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to upholding international law and promoting peace and justice. Her work continues to inspire and influence scholars, policymakers, and lawyers around the world.
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