For Horst Schade, giving to the University of Kent’s Sanctuary Fund is not just an act of philanthropy—it’s an affirmation of values he has lived by throughout his life and career.
After graduating from Kent in 1982 with a degree in Law and Politics, Horst went on to study at the London School of Economics and later worked at the University of Cambridge. His path eventually led him to a 32-year career at the Council of Europe, the continent’s leading human rights organisation, where he rose to become Director for General Services at its Parliamentary Assembly.
Reflecting on why he chose to support Kent’s Sanctuary Scholars, Horst shared:
“Until recently, it seemed natural and obvious to me that foreign students, such as myself, are welcome at universities throughout the world because the raison d’être of universities is to be open-minded and cosmopolitan. I no longer believe that this is the case. I am proud that my former university has taken the initiative of the Sanctuary Fund and therefore wanted to support it.”
His gift to the Sanctuary Fund helps ensure that Kent remains a place of welcome for those forced to flee their homes—offering a vital lifeline through education, community and hope.
Throughout his international career, Horst has witnessed both the fragility and power of justice. He recalls being part of a mission in 1999 to observe the trial of Abdullah Öcalan in Turkey, where Council of Europe pressure ultimately helped abolish the death penalty. And just recently, he celebrated the Council’s agreement with President Zelensky to establish a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine.
“Public international law may seem less visible in today’s world of power politics and conflict,” he says, “but it still matters deeply. The work of institutions like the Council of Europe needs young people—aspiring graduates who believe in human rights and the rule of law.”
Horst credits much of his success to the education he received at Kent:
“Working at the Council of Europe and building a career in international diplomacy would not have been possible without the fantastic education I received at UKC. The University, its teachers and students, broadened my horizons and helped me become a more well-rounded person. I will always be grateful for that.”
Now, by supporting Sanctuary Scholars, Horst is giving others the opportunity to transform their lives at Kent, just as he did.