Short Annabel

Annabel founded the global “Dignity by Design” programme on human rights in the built environment, with the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB) and partners. With human rights as a starting point, the programme drives change in mindsets, policy and practice throughout the built environment lifecycle: from land, planning and financing, through design and construction, to re-use and re-development.

The programme is currently undertaking a two-year research and visioning project on just transitions in the built environment: “Building for Today and the Future”. This project draws on insights from eight cities to open up pathways to place-based climate and environmental action that respects the rights to housing, workers’ rights, meaningful participation, and non-discrimination.

Currently Principal, It’s Material, Annabel has two decades of experience on human rights, climate change and the respective responsibilities of governments and companies. She has a particular emphasis on local-level leadership and action within the context of global trends. Previously Annabel has worked for ALIGN (Alliance for a Greater New York), Business & Human Rights Resource Centre, and Context Group. She has written for publications such as Geographical, Resurgence, Open Global Rights, Open Democracy and the Guardian, as well as academic publications. She lives in Queens, New York City.