First to Stand: The Cases and Causes of Irwin Cotler follows renowned human rights activist Irwin Cotler as he fights for justice and freedom in the face of repressive regimes, using his "mobilization of shame" strategy against notorious villains like Vladimir Putin. From the streets of Moscow to the streets of Tehran, this documentary takes audiences on a journey with Cotler's clients, including Saudi blogger Raif Badawi and Iranian women's rights activist Shaparak Shajarizadeh, as they battle for their lives and livelihoods through his tireless advocacy.