This session explores threats to the respect for human rights and the rule of law. The rise of populism and acts of authoritarian nationalism from influential state actors has led to international legal obligations being ignored, and, as a result, the rule of law and fundamental human rights to be undermined. Globally, we have witnessed crucial examples of this, from Trump’s United States, a state once considered a beacon for safeguarding fundamental human rights, and its withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council in June 2018, to Hungary’s stringent immigration controls under Orban’s leadership. This session discusses responsibilities of states, the relevance of organisations like the UN and the role of lawyers in maintaining international order and respecting human rights as the foundation of our globalised world. In upholding the rule of law, states should provide a means of redress when specific rights are not defended, and discuss exactly how the legal profession can work to address this grave concern will be deliberated.