Jean Ziegler

Jean Ziegler

Name	Jean Ziegler
Birth name
Birth date	Birth date -1st March 1966
Birth place	Thun, Switzerland
Death date
Death place
Alma mater
Occupation	Sociologist, Politician, Author
Years active
Organization
Known for	Advocacy for social justice and human rights
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Jean Ziegler (born April 19, 1934) is a Swiss sociologist, politician, and author known for his work on social justice, human rights, and global economic inequality. He has been a prominent critic of neoliberalism and has served in various roles within the United Nations, including as the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food.

Early Life and Education

Jean Ziegler was born in Thun, Switzerland. He pursued his higher education in law and sociology, studying at the University of Geneva, the University of Paris, and the University of Bern. Ziegler earned his doctorate in law and later became a professor of sociology at the University of Geneva and the University of Paris.

Political Career

Ziegler's political career began in the 1960s when he was elected to the Swiss National Council, where he served as a member of the Social Democratic Party of Switzerland. During his tenure, he was known for his outspoken views on social justice and economic inequality.

Work with the United Nations

In 2000, Jean Ziegler was appointed as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food, a position he held until 2008. In this role, he advocated for the right to food as a fundamental human right and criticized practices that led to food insecurity and hunger.

Publications

Jean Ziegler is the author of numerous books and articles that critique global capitalism and advocate for social justice. Some of his notable works include:

• The Empire of Shame
• The Right to Food
• The Destruction of the Global Economy

Criticism and Controversy

Ziegler's outspoken views have often been controversial. He has been criticized by some for his harsh critiques of Western economic policies and institutions. However, his work has also been praised for bringing attention to issues of poverty and inequality.

Legacy

Jean Ziegler's work has had a significant impact on the discourse surrounding human rights and economic justice. His advocacy has inspired many to consider the ethical implications of global economic policies.

Also see

• United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food
• Social Democratic Party of Switzerland
• Global economic inequality
• Human rights