Former Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams to deliver human rights lecture at Swansea University

Dr Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury and one of the UK’s most respected public thinkers, will deliver this year’s Illtyd David Human Rights Memorial Lecture at Swansea University.

The free event is open to all and will take place on Wednesday 9 October 2025, at the Richard Price Lecture Theatre, Singleton Campus, from 5pm.

This lecture honours the legacy of Dr Illtyd David (1894–1982), a pioneer of adult education and an early advocate for what we now call Human Rights. Inspired by his experiences in the United States a century ago, Dr David dedicated over six decades to adult education and public service in south-west Wales, shaping progressive debates on justice, equality, and international cooperation.

The evening will begin with an introduction by Professor Edward David, explaining the significance of Illtyd David’s tour of the USA in 1925.

A drinks reception will follow, before the main lecture.

Dr Rowan Williams’ lecture, titled ‘Human Rights and Human Solidarity’, will examine the tensions and limitations of the language of rights in today’s world. Dr Williams will ask whether the concept of rights sometimes distracts from the deeper moral and social bonds that hold communities together.

His address will challenge audiences to reflect on the foundations of human dignity and the responsibilities that underpin a just society. A Q&A session will follow, offering attendees the opportunity to engage directly with Dr Williams.

During the coming year there will be additional public events exploring contemporary human rights challenges, reflecting Swansea University’s ongoing commitment to social justice, education, and public engagement.

To register for the event, visit: bit.ly/RowanWilliams

Image of Dr Rowan Williams by Matthew Horwood Photography