Country Conditions Expert Witness

I serve as an expert witness and consultant on country conditions in U.S. immigration proceedings, including asylum, withholding of removal, and Convention Against Torture cases. This work draws on my research on political violence, armed conflict, governance, and state and non-state coercion, as well as my experience working on national security and foreign policy issues for the U.S. government and previously for the United Nations.

I can provide independent analyses, which may include declarations or testimony, of country conditions relevant to an individual case, including political or religious persecution, armed conflict and political violence, treatment of ethnic or other social groups, threats from state or non-state actors, government capacity or willingness to provide protection, internal relocation, local political and social networks, and the risk someone may face upon return.

Areas of Expertise

I have conducted significant research on Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), China, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, the Philippines, Sierra Leone, Taiwan, Thailand, Ukraine, and Vietnam.

In addition, my research and professional work have also involved engagement with political, security, governance, or humanitarian conditions in other countries, such as Cambodia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Mexico, Pakistan, Syria, and Yemen.

Because the relevant issues differ across cases, I evaluate each potential engagement individually. Attorneys seeking a country conditions expert for a country or issue not specifically listed above are welcome to get in touch. I will take on matters where I believe I can provide grounded and independent expert analysis.

Inquiries

Attorneys or other interested parties are welcome to contact me at expert@renardsexton.com