Jean Zermatten

Dr. h.c. Jean Zermatten served as President and Dean of the Juvenile Court of the Canton of Valais, Switzerland, from 1980 to 2005. He is the Founder and Director of the International Institute for the Rights of the Child (IDE) in Sion, Switzerland, and has lectured at the University of Fribourg in the faculties of Arts, Social Work, and Law. Dr. Zermatten played a pivotal role in establishing the Master of Advanced Studies in Children’s Rights in collaboration with the University of Fribourg and the Institut Universitaire Kurt Bösch, now known as the Center for Children’s Rights Studies (CCRS). He has initiated various academic programs focused on children's rights for professionals. His work spans multiple continents, including Africa, where he is involved with the West Africa Network for Children on the Move in partnership with the International Social Service. A recipient of an honorary doctorate from the University of Fribourg, Dr. Zermatten has been a member of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child since 2005, serving as Vice-Chair from 2007 to 2011 and Chairperson from 2011 to 2013. His extensive experience and contributions have significantly advanced the field of children's rights globally.