Chandra was a member of our Board of Trustees from 2009 until 2012, and brought intellectual rigour and commitment to asking challenging questions that contributed to the development of the organisation. Andy Carl was Executive Director of Conciliation Resources at the time:
As a member of Conciliation Resources’ Board, Chandra brought her intellect, wit and politics to bear, helping to give us a strategic steer on our work on peacebuilding and human rights. I will never forget how generous she was with her insights, which were always delivered with a sardonic humour and an eye to what our work on transitional justice, peace and democratisation could mean for people living with violence and conflict. We will miss her.
Chandra was a Professor in Law at the University of London, School of Oriental and African Studies, and founded and directed the Centre on Human Rights in Conflict at the University of East London. She also provided support and advice to the United Nations Development Programme, and led the development of a guidance note on governance, conflict prevention and early recovery. Chandra was twice the Chair of the International Studies Association Human Rights section and was co-Chair of the London Transitional Justice Network. Executive Director of Conciliation Resources, Jonathan Cohen said:
Chandra's intelligence, audacity and energy were a great tonic. We benefitted enormously from the questions she posed, honed through experience of researching in conflict contexts and navigating the corridors of diplomatic institutions. This is a shocking loss to a community that held her in high esteem.
Chandra also authored and edited various books and journal articles on international relations, international law, human rights, conflict prevention and peacebuilding, and co-edited a book series on law, conflict and international relations. She also authored a chapter in Conciliation Resources' Accord publication on Lebanon.