Assoc ProfessorLiam Thornton

My core research interests examine a number of key themes, focusing mainly on the intersections between human rights, state control, socio-economic rights and migration. An underlying theme of my research interests is on governmentality and control of groups within society that political systems deem problematic -with a particular focus on asylum seekers and migrants,. See in particular my project Exploring Direct Provision, www.exploringdirectprovision.ie. I have a fascination with systems of governance and how these can be used, sometimes at the same time, as a delivery mechanism to ensure protection of human rights, yet also as a means of control and supervision of those persons deemed 'problematic' by society. Methodologically, my research spans a variety of approaches including: doctrinal, socio-legal and critical approaches to law, legal systems and rights. Along with research collaborators, we are currently exploring the issue of Feminist Constitutions and you can keep up to date with this project as it progresses on www.feministconstitutions.com.