With over two decades of unwavering dedication to gender equality, governance, and women’s political participation, Patricia Elias stands as a beacon of leadership in advancing women’s rights worldwide. Her illustrious career spans advocacy, humanitarian initiatives, and international law, with a special focus on post-conflict and fragile contexts.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Leadership
Currently, Patricia serves as the Chief of the Global Diplomatic Campaign for Every Woman Treaty. In this role, she represents the organization in dialogues with world leaders, heads of state, and prime ministers, driving a global advocacy campaign across 169 countries. With a coalition of over 4,000 members and a vast network of 10,000 contacts, Patricia orchestrates more than 4,000 high-level international meetings annually.
In addition, as the G100 Global Chair for Government and Ministerial Advocacy, she leads strategic initiatives spanning Africa, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East, fostering meaningful change at the highest levels of governance.
Groundbreaking Achievements
Patricia’s extensive contributions include drafting Lebanon’s Shadow Reports on Women’s Access to Justice and Political Participation, co-authoring Libya’s Gender Justice & the Law Report, and spearheading initiatives that have reshaped gender policies. As the founder of Avenir Liban, she was instrumental in securing two landmark court decisions in Lebanon under the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Her advocacy led to the recognition of civil marriages in Lebanon and the creation of the country’s first-ever Minister of Women’s Affairs.
Her work also includes advocating for a 30% women’s quota in Lebanon’s political landscape, a campaign that has resulted in the inclusion of women on all electoral lists.
A Global Voice for Women’s Rights
Patricia’s influence extends far beyond Lebanon. She has represented women’s rights at prestigious international forums, including the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and the Human Rights Council (HRC). She manages multiple high-level UN side events annually and advises dignitaries from over 73 states. As a thought leader, she is a frequent guest speaker at global conventions, championing gender equality and the fight to end violence against women and girls.
Humanitarian Contributions
Patricia’s humanitarian efforts are as extensive as her advocacy work. From building an orphanage in Cameroon to supporting women’s economic reintegration in France and aiding street children in Gabon, she has touched countless lives through her compassion and commitment. In recognition of her global impact, she received the prestigious French Medal of Associative Commitment.
Multifaceted Expertise
An accomplished international lawyer, Patricia’s expertise spans Arab, French, English, and North American business laws. Her ability to navigate complex political and legal landscapes has been instrumental in advancing women’s rights through legislative reforms. Fluent in Arabic, French, and English, Patricia bridges cultural and linguistic divides, making her a powerful advocate on the global stage.
A Lasting Impact
Patricia’s dedication to advancing gender equality, coupled with her humanitarian efforts and legal expertise, exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have on the world. Whether through pioneering legal reforms, leading global campaigns, or empowering women in fragile contexts, Patricia continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations of leaders.
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