Rebecca Rouhana

Leader at the Observatory on Human Rights at the UN

Originally from Ottawa, Rebecca is a first-generation Canadian entering her third year in the Civil Law program at the University of Ottawa.

​

Her interest in human rights is rooted in both her family history and her volunteer experience with Caritas Lebanon. Coming from a family that fled Lebanon, she grew up with an awareness of the lasting impact that conflict, instability, and displacement can have on individuals and families. Through her work with Caritas Lebanon, Rebecca collaborated with a lawyer in a family law practice, where she gained insight into the legal barriers women may face when religious courts grant custody to fathers and restrict women’s parental rights.

​

Rebecca also has experience in the public sector. She currently works as a Junior Project Coordinator at Public Services and Procurement Canada, where she contributes to communications initiatives, presentations, data analysis, and projects related to values and ethics. Previously, she worked with the Conflict of Interest Office at the Department of National Defence.

Outside of her studies and professional responsibilities, Rebecca is actively involved in tutoring, sports, music, and STEM initiatives. She is also the co-founder of a science-focused initiative designed to engage and inspire young students.

​

Through her involvement with the Observatory, Rebecca hopes to deepen her understanding of international human rights law, particularly in relation to women’s rights and access to justice.

​

Rebecca is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.