Laura Powers brings a decade of experience in development, peacebuilding and conflict prevention, and multilateral affairs. Working within the UN system, she has expertise in SDG 16, the rule of law, access to justice, human rights, peacebuilding, and political belonging. More broadly, through her work with international organisations, think tanks, and the UN, Laura has conducted research and advocacy that meaningfully connect high-level international policy with the needs of local populations, particularly women and youth. She has previously worked at the International Development Law Organization, the International Peace Institute, and other organizations, and has also worked in journalism at Newsweek. 

Originally from California, Laura began her career advocating for prisoners’ rights and law enforcement reform in Berkeley, California. She holds an M.A. in International Relations from New York University.