About - Avraham (Russell) Shalev

About Avraham (Russell) Shalev

Adv. Avraham (Russell) Shalev is an international lawyer, writer, and public speaker specializing in international public law and the intersection of law, morality, and global politics. A Senior Fellow at the Kohelet Policy Forum, Shalev is known for his clear, principled voice on some of the most complex and emotionally charged issues in international affairs.

Fluent in English, Hebrew, and French, with a background spanning law, political science, and Middle Eastern studies, Shalev bridges rigorous legal analysis with moral clarity — making him a sought-after speaker at conferences, universities, and policy forums across Israel, North America, and Europe.

Challenging Narratives.
Inspiring Understanding.

Engaging & Insightful Speaker

Shalev’s speaking style is both intellectually sharp and deeply human. Whether addressing policymakers, academics, or general audiences, he brings a rare ability to unpack legal and historical complexities in a way that is accessible, compelling, and relevant to today’s global challenges.

He regularly speaks on:

The weaponization of international law and the moral distortion of human rights language
The rebranding of antisemitism as anti-Zionism in modern discourse
Genocide law and the dangers of political manipulation of legal definitions
Freedom, sovereignty, and authoritarianism in international relations
The role of legal and moral clarity in democratic societies

Shalev’s talks challenge audiences to think beyond headlines — offering insight into how law, ideology, and narrative shape public opinion and policy.

Academic & Professional Background

veteran in his field

Shalev holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies from McGill University in Canada, a Bachelor of Law, and a Master’s in Middle Eastern Studies from Bar-Ilan University.

He is a licensed attorney with the Israel Bar Association, and an alumnus of The Hague Academy of International Law, where he studied International Humanitarian Law.

He previously served at the Israeli Ministry of Justice and clerked at Herzog, Fox & Neeman, Israel’s leading international law firm, focusing on defense export control and compliance. His academic experience includes roles as Editor for the Journal of Law, Religion and State and External Relations Coordinator at Bar-Ilan University.

analysis of the narratives that define our time.

Publications & Commentary

Avraham (Russell) Shalev’s writings appear in major international outlets including The Jerusalem Post, Israel Hayom, JNS.org, Spiked, The European Conservative, National Post, and Fathom Journal. His essays examine the misuse of international law, the ideological roots of anti-Zionism, and the moral frameworks that define modern conflicts.

He has recently been published in esteemed academic journals, including:

Cambridge University Press
San Diego International Journal

Each of his works reinforces a consistent mission: to restore meaning, balance, and truth to the legal and moral language of international affairs.

Bring Shalev to your next event

Book a Lecture

Avraham (Russell) Shalev is available for speaking engagements. Click below for details: