Dr John Barker

Founder and Director

Fellow of the Lauterpacht Centre for International Law at Cambridge and founding Director of Cambridge Governance Labs. Over 35 years’ experience in international law, governance and development, with extensive work across Africa advising governments, UNDP, the EU and DFID on justice sector reform and human rights.

John Barker, a legal scholar and practitioner with over 35 years of experience, is at the forefront of international law, governance and development. As a Fellow of the Lauterpacht Centre for International Law at Cambridge University and founding Director of Cambridge Governance Labs, he focuses on governance risk and the potential of emerging technologies to enhance responsible decision-making in public life. His extensive work in Africa, collaborating with governments, international agencies and NGOs, has significantly contributed to justice sector reform and human rights promotion.

John’s expertise has been sought by organisations like UNDP, the EU and DFID and he has shared his insights through lectures and keynote addresses worldwide. By bridging academic research with real-world implementation, John continues to shape international law and governance practices, fostering global development and justice.