Susanné Seong-eun Bergsten

Susanné Seong-eun Bergsten is Acting Research Assistant in the Women’s Rights Division at Human Rights Watch, based in San Francisco. Her work focuses on sexual and reproductive rights, gender-based violence, and broader issues affecting gender equality. She also writes and speaks on anti-Asian racism and hate crimes, bringing an intersectional perspective to her research and advocacy.

In addition to her professional work, Susanné has been actively engaged in advancing adoptee rights. She is committed to raising awareness and amplifying adoptee voices, and previously served on the board of Adopterade Koreaners Förening (AKF), an organization for Korean adoptees.

Prior to joining Human Rights Watch, Susanné managed international programs at PeaceWorks and worked extensively on refugee rights in Sweden. Her experience includes helping run a legal clinic for asylum seekers and serving on the board of Refugees Welcome Stockholm. She has also contributed to international justice and environmental initiatives through her work with the United Nations Assistance to the Khmer Rouge Trials in Cambodia and the United Nations Environment Programme in Canada. 

Susanné holds a master’s degree in International Law from Maastricht University and a bachelor’s degree in International Journalism.