PJR

Dr Penelope Ridings

A life in international law

Penelope Ridings

An experienced diplomat, international lawyer, advocate and adjudicator.

Independent Barrister providing legal advice to Governments and inter-governmental organisations.

Experience across international law and diplomacy

“I have been fortunate to be present at some key moments for New Zealand in international law

as a negotiator, legal adviser, advocate and arbitrator.”

  • Member of the International Law Commission and Special Rapporteur for ‘Due Diligence in International Law’. 
  • Committed to supporting the continued relevance of the International Law Commission that addresses States’ needs and emerging global challenges.
  • Arbitrator committed to integrity, fairness and due process. 
  • Legal adviser providing high-quality legal advice on fisheries management, oceans governance and the environment.
CV (PDF)

My Values

Integrity & fairness

Integrity, fairness and the concept of kaitiakitanga, which is about guardianship and care of people and the environment based on the Māori world view of New Zealand’s indigenous people.

Multilateralism

Strong support for multilateralism and the importance of rules to guide the relations between States.

Cooperation

Fundamental belief in cooperation, collaboration and understanding of diverse perspectives.

Professional experience

  • Member, International Law Commission: 2023–present
  • Barrister and International Lawyer (2015–present)
  • Chief International Legal Adviser, New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (2011–2015)
  • Ambassador of New Zealand to Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania (2008–2011)
  • International Trade Law Adviser and Head of Trade Law, New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (2004–2007)
  • High Commissioner of New Zealand to Samoa (2001–2004)
  • Deputy Director, Legal Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (1998–2001)
  • Deputy High Commissioner of New Zealand to Samoa (1995–1998)
  • First Secretary, New Zealand Embassy, Bonn, Germany (1991–1994)
  • Legal Adviser, Legal Division, New Zealand Ministry of External Affairs and Trade (1988–1990)
  • Legal Adviser, Attorney-General’s Office, Samoa (1980)
  • Lecturer of Law, University of Auckland Law School, New Zealand (1979)

Education

PhD in Political Science, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 1987

MJur (with Distinction), University of Auckland, New Zealand, 1979

BA/LLB (Hons), University of Auckland, New Zealand, 1978

Recognition

Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for Services to the State, 2015