Gemma Davies
About Gemma Davies
Gemma Davies is a Senior Research Fellow specializing in Protection at the Overseas Development Institute, where she has worked since 2020. With over 15 years of experience in project management and policy advocacy in conflict and fragile states, she has held various roles in humanitarian organizations across East Africa and the Middle East.
Work at ODI
Gemma Davies has been serving as a Senior Research Fellow - Protection at the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) since 2020. In this role, she focuses on issues related to protection in humanitarian contexts. Her work involves conducting research and providing insights that inform policy and practice in the field of protection, contributing to ODI's mission of influencing global development and humanitarian responses.
Previous Experience
Prior to her current position, Gemma Davies held various roles in humanitarian and development organizations. She worked as a Regional Durable Solutions Secretariat Coordinator at Danish Refugee Council for five months in Kenya in 2015. From 2015 to 2020, she served as a Humanitarian and Refugee Advisor at the Department for International Development (DFID), where she was involved in operations in Yemen, Nigeria, and Uganda. Additionally, she worked as an Independent Consultant and Project Coordinator in East Africa, and held positions at Amnesty International and War Child UK.
Education and Expertise
Gemma Davies holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology and Music from the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne, which she completed from 1998 to 2001. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree in Human Rights Law from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, in 2010. Her academic background supports her extensive expertise in humanitarian issues, policy advocacy, and project management.
Background in Conflict and Fragile States
With over 15 years of experience in conflict and fragile states, Gemma Davies has worked in various regions including South Sudan, Nigeria, Yemen, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Sudan (Darfur). Her roles have involved managing projects and providing humanitarian support in challenging environments. This extensive background has equipped her with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in humanitarian crises.
Research and Advocacy
Gemma Davies has a public track record of research in the field of protection. Her work has contributed to policy discussions and advocacy efforts aimed at improving the conditions for vulnerable populations affected by conflict and humanitarian crises. With more than ten years of experience in policy and advocacy, she has played a significant role in shaping responses to humanitarian challenges.