Courtney Phelps is a Gender and Social Inclusion Specialist with extensive experience leading rigorous research and analysis to influence equitable policy outcomes across the WANA region. Her work bridges feminist research methodologies with participatory approaches that elevate the voices of grassroots women’s groups and movements, ensuring their priorities inform decision-making and empowerment strategies. Courtney has authored and co-authored gender analyses, policy briefs, and evaluation reports for institutions including UN Women, UNDP, the World Bank, and international NGOs, translating evidence into actionable recommendations for inclusive governance and economic justice. Prior to this role, her career focused on designing, implementing and advising on humanitarian programming addressing gender-based violence and protection programming, largely focused in Syria, Lebanon, and the wider region. Courtney’s expertise in intersectional analysis and evidence-based advocacy strengthens efforts to uphold human rights and advance gender and social inclusion in complex humanitarian and development contexts.
