Omar Mekky, an Egyptian former judge and athlete, describes his route into a career as a regional legal coordinator for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) — from professional handball player, to prosecutor in Upper Egypt, to international humanitarian law and the global injustices that drew him to it.
He explains the ICRC's neutral mandate, and why the organisation works to alleviate human suffering through confidential negotiations with all parties to a conflict rather than public condemnation. The conversation takes in the complexities of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the limitations of international legal frameworks such as the UN Security Council, and the ethical challenges raised by emerging technologies including AI-driven weaponry.
Mekky argues that while the international legal system is flawed and often shaped by power politics, it remains a vital tool for the weak to assert their humanity. He closes by urging a long-term perspective on justice, and contribution through education, donations and persistent advocacy despite the slow pace of global change.