The Carlos Gaviria Díaz Legal Clinic, part of the Legal Clinic of the Universidad Industrial de Santander (UIS), is an innovative pedagogical model that seeks to integrate research, training and legal intervention for the benefit of the community. Since its creation, the clinic has been committed to the needs of public and community interest, and its work translates into concrete actions that address various social problems.
One of the clinic’s most prominent approaches is its work in strategic litigation, which is developed in collaboration with grassroots organizations and human rights defenders. This approach addresses the injustices faced by historically vulnerable groups, such as victims of the armed conflict, ethnic and migrant populations, as well as women and people with diverse disabilities. The clinic focuses on the defense of fundamental rights, promoting social welfare through a legal framework that respects the Political Constitution of Colombia and human rights.
The UIS Legal Clinic operates through various strategic lines of action. The public interest line seeks to defend vulnerable groups, with a special emphasis on school law and the rights of the elderly. The environmental, popular and community justice line is dedicated to protecting the territories of communities affected by extractivism and racialized violence. In addition, the animal welfare line focuses on guaranteeing rights to non-human sentient beings, promoting their welfare at all stages of their lives.
Likewise, the gender line focuses on the legal defense of the human rights of women and the LGBTIQ+ community, addressing gender-based violence and discrimination.
Among the services offered by the clinic are the defense of collective rights, interventions in high courts, constitutional actions, participation in public hearings, and pedagogical and legal accompaniment to communities and public entities. This wide range of services reflects the clinic’s commitment to justice and equal access to justice.
Located at Carrera 19 #35-02, in the Legal Clinic and Conciliation Center of the UIS, the clinic is open from Monday to Friday at times that are accessible to the community. Those interested in receiving guidance or support can contact the clinic through the e-mail litigio.estrategico@uis.edu.co.
The UIS Legal Clinic consolidates itself as a reference in the struggle for social justice, promoting the rights and welfare of all Santander citizens.
