A distinguished journalist and author, Jawid H. Laiq (b. 1942) is known to promote human rights, freedom of expression, and the role of the media in shaping public opinion.
After completing his Bachelor’s degree in Politics from Elphinstone College, Laiq pursued a Master’s degree in Politics at Bombay University (1963-65), where his interest in global political dynamics deepened. His passion for social justice and human rights led him to pursue post-graduate research at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. Between 1965 and 1970, Laiq conducted field research in Malaysia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka, supported by a research grant from the Central Research Fund of London University.
Laiq’s career as a journalist and researcher began to take shape in the 1970s when he worked as an Assistant Editor for the renowned Economic and Political Weekly (1970-75). Here, he focused on social science research, setting the stage for his later career as a political analyst and human rights advocate. During this time, he also served as a Special Correspondent for Indian Express (1975-78), covering economic ministries and opposition political parties. His editorial skills were further developed when he became the Deputy Editor of New Delhi Magazine (1976-80), managing editorial teams and overseeing production.
In the early 1980s, Laiq’s journalism career expanded internationally as he became the India Correspondent for Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), covering major political and social events across India. This experience deepened his understanding of international affairs and diplomacy, preparing him for his later roles in global human rights work.
Between 1985 and 1987, Laiq became a Fellow at the Centre for Policy Research, New Delhi, where he organized and participated in international seminars focused on Asian regional organizations like ASEAN, GCC, and SAARC. During this period, he also contributed political columns to The Telegraph, Calcutta.
Laiq’s career in human rights advocacy reached its peak during his tenure at Amnesty International (1990-1994) in London, where he headed a research group. He led efforts to protect human rights across countries like Australia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Pacific Island nations. His work involved field research, liaising with journalists, and lobbying international organizations and governments.
In the mid-1990s, Laiq held prestigious fellowships at Just World Trust, Penang (1995), where he wrote the monograph ‘Western Media in Asia: Globalization and Resistance’, and at Jamia Millia Islamia University, Delhi (1996-97), where he conducted seminars on human rights issues. His work during this time solidified his reputation as a leader in media studies and global political issues.
Laiq is also the author of the book The Maverick Republic, published in 2002, which reflects his vast experience and insights into global and domestic politics.
Now working independently from Delhi, Laiq continues to write extensively on political issues, human rights, and media, contributing opinion pieces and analysis to leading newspapers in India. His dedication to social justice and human rights advocacy has made him a respected voice in both national and international circles.
About the Collection: Jawid Laiq has donated a valuable collection of his papers, including books authored by him like The Western Media in Asia: Globalisation & Resistance, and The Maverick Republic as well as works by his family members. The collection contains articles published in newspapers and magazines such as Indian Express, The Telegraph, Outlook, Mail Today, Economic & Political Weekly, IQ and New Delhi. Also, there are reports related to Amnesty International.
Donor: Jawid Laiq
Acquisition: 2024