Press release
Statement on the passing of James Kingston
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
It is with great sadness that the Department of Foreign Affairs learned of the passing of James Kingston, who served as the department's Legal Adviser and a member of the Management Board since 2009. The passing of such a brilliant, principled and compassionate individual and public servant is a huge loss to those who loved him, to this department, and to public life. All our thoughts are with his partner, family and friends. Colleagues in the department - past and present - will acutely feel his loss.
After qualifying as a barrister, James joined the department in 1995, becoming Legal Adviser in 2009. He was highly respected across the civil service and in legal circles for his expertise on the EU and human rights law and for his leadership on Brexit, the Lisbon Treaty, the European Stability Mechanism and the International Criminal Court. He was also a gifted teacher and lectured in Trinity College in International and Human Rights Law.
We have lost a colleague of great conviction, intellect and courage. We have also lost a thoroughly decent and thoughtful person. He will be deeply missed.