HRIC Mourns the Passing of Jerome A. Cohen, Pioneer of Chinese Law and Steadfast Ally of Human Rights

HRIC mourns the death of Professor Jerome Alan Cohen on September 22 at age 95. A pioneer in Chinese legal studies and a mentor to generations of young Chinese and American lawyers, Professor Cohen tirelessly promoted rule of law in China through education and dialogue with Chinese lawyers and officials. “Walking on two legs,” he also provided invaluable assistance to countless victims of human rights abuses in China. He was a long-time friend of our organization, offering critical encouragement and generous support for HRIC’s international policy work and our advocacy on behalf of rights defenders. We are committed to honoring Professor Cohen’s life through our ongoing efforts to promote rule of law and respect for rights in China.

中国人权沉痛悼念孔杰荣（柯恩）教授！孔教授于2025年9月22日逝世，享年95岁。孔教授是中国法律研究的开拓者，也是几代中美法律人的恩师。他毕生致力于通过教育及与中国法律界和官员的对话，推动中国法治建设。他秉持“两条腿走路”的理念，在制度建设与个案援助之间寻求平衡，为无数人权受害者提供了宝贵支持。

孔教授是我们长期的挚友，不仅在关键时刻给予中国人权机构坚定的鼓励，还在国际政策倡导及支持中国维权人士方面慷慨相助。我们将以持续推动中国法治与人权事业的发展，来纪念孔杰荣教授卓越而有意义的一生。