Ikhlas Merabti

Tell us a bit about yourself and your background
I'm Ikhlas Merabti, and I have a background in Politics, Religion, and Sociology from King’s College London. My academic interests lie in political philosophy, migration rights, and democratic theory. Beyond academia, I’ve worked in research, policy analysis, and advocacy, particularly on asylum seekers’ rights, corporate diversity, and international affairs. I’m also actively involved in community leadership and fundraising, working with organizations that support marginalized groups.

Why did you apply to the Political Science Department at UCL?
UCL’s Political Science Department has a world-class reputation for critical and interdisciplinary approaches to politics. I chose the Legal and Political Theory programme because it blends philosophy, law, and politics—three areas that deeply shape our world. The department’s research focus on democracy, justice, and political rights aligns with my passion for policy-making and advocacy. UCL’s global outlook and engagement with real-world political challenges made it the ideal place to refine my expertise.

What do you like best about your course so far?
The best part of my course is how philosophical reasoning intersects with contemporary political issues. We explore foundational questions—what justice means, who deserves rights, and how power should be distributed—but always tie them back to today’s legal and political structures. The debates are dynamic, the reading lists are thought-provoking, and the discussions challenge my perspectives constantly.

What is the rest of your cohort like?
My cohort is incredibly diverse, both in terms of nationality and academic backgrounds. There are people with degrees in law, philosophy, international relations, and even economics. This diversity makes discussions richer because everyone brings unique perspectives—some approach issues from a strict legal lens, while others focus on ethics or historical precedents. It’s an intellectually stimulating environment, and I appreciate how open-minded and engaged everyone is.

What is the teaching and learning like?
It’s rigorous but rewarding. The lectures provide strong theoretical foundations, while the seminars push us to engage critically with the material. The professors encourage independent thought and challenge us to defend our arguments with precision. I also appreciate the flexibility in assessments—whether through essays, presentations, or policy analysis, we’re encouraged to apply theory to real-world issues.

What are your career aspirations and how do you envisage the programme helping with these?
I want to work in political research, policy advising, and advocacy, focusing on democracy, migration rights, and equality. Whether in a think tank, government, or NGO, I aim to influence policies that promote justice and inclusion. This programme sharpens my analytical skills, deepens my understanding of legal frameworks, and connects me with leading experts in the field. The emphasis on argumentation, ethics, and political structures will be invaluable for shaping impactful policies.

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London
1.    The British Library – A paradise for research and political theory enthusiasts, with endless resources and historical manuscripts.
2.    The Royal Courts of Justice – A fascinating place for anyone interested in law, democracy, and the evolution of rights.
3.    Southbank – A great spot for open-air discussions, book browsing, and catching thought-provoking debates at the Southbank Centre.

Who inspires you and why?
One of my biggest inspirations is bell hooks. Her work on intersectionality, feminism, and social justice has profoundly shaped my understanding of power structures. She challenges dominant narratives while advocating for radical love and inclusion, which resonates with my passion for equality and policy change.

If you could implement one policy in the world today, what would it be?
I would implement a universal right to work for asylum seekers. Too many people seeking refuge are denied employment, forced into poverty, and excluded from society. Granting asylum seekers the right to work would improve their well-being, integrate them into communities, and allow them to contribute economically. It’s a simple, humane policy that benefits both individuals and societies.