Carolyn Tanner advocates for Human Rights, Equity, and Justice, equipped with extensive knowledge, practical experience, and leadership abilities to promote inclusive practices and address human rights violations effectively. With over 20 years of experience spanning multiple countries, she has worked in Canada, Nepal, Timor-Leste and Uganda, focusing on empowering marginalized people, to access their rights.
As an expert for the Technical Assistance Partnership (TAP) initiative, Carolyn collaborates closely with Thailand’s Ministry of Justice’s Department of Rights and Liberties Protection. Her primary focus is to develop a rights-based action plan that guides the Department in advancing its Human Resource policies, regulations, and practices to prevent and address discrimination and harassment. This initiative aims to foster a more inclusive and welcoming workplace for members of the LGBTQ+ community, applying the Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA Plus) policy processes.
Carolyn’s unwavering commitment to social justice and her belief in every person’s inherent dignity and worth have guided her throughout her career. During her tenure with the United Nations, she oversaw the monitoring, investigation, and reporting of human rights abuses. Carolyn has also worked in an advisory capacity to governments and educational institutions to embed equitable access to services and respect for human rights. She recognizes the power of individuals who understand their rights and emphasizes the importance of respecting local knowledge and expertise. While acknowledging that fighting for equality can be challenging in some contexts, she believes it is necessary and universal.
Carolyn obtained her Juris Doctor (Doctor of Laws) from the University of Western Ontario and completed her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology and Health at Queen’s University in Kingston.