The Fund for Global Human Rights is pleased to announce Gabriela Bucher as its next president and CEO. She will begin her appointment on May 29, 2023.
An experienced social justice leader and a lifelong advocate for human rights, Gabriela currently serves as the executive director of Oxfam International. Previously, she spent nearly twenty years at Plan International, working her way up from regional resource mobilization manager to chief operating officer.
“I am honored and humbled to accept this opportunity to lead the Fund for Global Human Rights,” said Gabriela. “Over the course of my humanitarian career, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact of grassroots activists, local human rights defenders, and social movements. The Fund plays a vital role in making this life-changing work possible.
“Too often, we define the global moment we’re in by our shared challenges: climate change, inequality, injustice, authoritarianism. Let’s talk instead about the solutions. In communities around the world, grassroots activists are tackling these issues head-on—and making real progress. Their resilience, energy, and hope for a better world inspires me every day. I look forward to being their vocal champion and trusted ally at the Fund.”
Throughout her distinguished career, Gabriela has demonstrated a deep commitment to justice and human rights. From working alongside children and communities affected by conflict in her native Colombia to calling out global inequality onstage at the World Economic Forum in Davos, she has been a fierce advocate for vulnerable or marginalized people everywhere. Gabriela has worked in the UK, Colombia, and Panama, and she is fluent in Spanish, English, and French. She currently resides in London and will be based in the Fund’s UK office.
“We are thrilled that Gabriela has agreed to join the Fund at this pivotal moment for human rights,” said Board Chair Chris Canavan. “We were fortunate to select the Fund’s next president and CEO from a remarkably strong field of candidates, all of whom were animated by the organization’s mission. Gabriela stood out as an exceptional leader and a visionary thinker, with an ambitious vision for the Fund’s future. Gabriela has left a lasting impact on every place she’s worked, and we have no doubt she will continue to transform the Fund.”
“Gabriela’s commitment to the Fund’s core values were immediately apparent,” added Acting CEO and President Brandee M. Butler. “Her passion for justice, entrepreneurial spirit, and deeply rooted empathy will uplift this organization and strengthen our work. I’m excited to work closely alongside her as we open this new chapter.”
“I’m delighted to join the chorus of voices welcoming Gabriela as the Fund’s new CEO,” said founding President and CEO Regan Ralph, who stepped down in November 2022 after leading the Fund for twenty years. “I can’t wait to see where such a vibrant, experienced leader takes this extraordinary and unique organization. This is good news for human rights movements globally!”
Please join us in welcoming Gabriela to the Fund.
For more information, please contact:
Rona Peligal, Vice President for Development and Communications
+1 917 363 3893
rpeligal@globalhumanrights.org
Cooper Hewell, Editorial and Communications Manager
+1 360 584 4270
chewell@globalhumanrights.org
