Irene Petras
Born in Zimbabwe to parents of Greek heritage, Irene was exposed to diverse cultures and viewpoints early in life. Her interest in human rights, political transitions and the law as an instrument of change and resistance deepened on witnessing South Africa’s constitution-making process and first democratic elections while studying law at University of Cape Town. She pursued post-graduate studies in transitional justice as a Chevening scholar at University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies. Irene returned to Zimbabwe to practice law, mentored by human rights lawyers with distinguished track records representing both pre-Independence liberation struggle leaders, and those resisting authoritarianism in post-Independence Zimbabwe.
Irene left a successful legal practice to institutionalize a dedicated group of volunteer human rights lawyers. Over 16 years (8 as executive director), the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) became a trusted safety net for civil society and human rights defenders (HRDs), while Irene learned how essential rule of law and an independent civil society is for democracy. Irene built extensive experience in organizational development, management and fundraising, while steering the development of innovative programs for HRD protection, international advocacy, and justice sector reform. With her leadership, the ZLHR team received national, continental and global recognition for its courageous work.
In 2016, Irene joined the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL). Over the past 9 years, she has solidified her leadership skills and is currently Regional Director of ICNL’s Africa program. She defends and supports civil society partners in 25+ countries in Africa, connects people and builds networks across Africa and with ICNL’s partners in Latin America and the Caribbean, the Middle East and North Africa. She engages with governments, multilateral organizations and academic institutions for an enabling legal environment for civil society’s critical work. This work gives Irene a deep understanding of coalition-building, solidarity, and how to connect global and local action, while appreciating and navigating the geopolitical challenges and shifting political alliances facing civil society today.
Irene’s almost two decades on the frontlines in a hostile environment for HRDs, coupled with a further decade of supporting civil society to confront new digital, legal and economic challenges will guide her contribution to the CIVICUS Board as the alliance seeks to strengthen civic action around the world. In the current context of growing authoritarianism where courage and persistence are required, Irene brings these skills, experiences and attributes to the CIVICUS Board and in service to its membership.
Irene has been a member of the CIVICUS Board of Directors since 2022, and an active member of its Governance Committee. She has previously held governance positions in regional networks including SADC Lawyers Association and major national civic bodies - the Zimbabwe Election Support Network; Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum; and Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition. Irene has supported CIVICUS since her days at ZLHR. She engages actively with CIVICUS staff on various initiatives in Africa and globally, and on thematic initiatives, and is committed to further enhancing collaboration with Board, staff and CIVICUS members.
- Favorite quote by someone who inspires me:
“Let your work speak for you.” – my late maternal grandmother, Irene.
- Skill that I am most proud of or want to learn:
Two skills that helped me when working in human rights and law in Zimbabwe during turbulent and polarized times are courage and building bridges among different sectors and stakeholders. I value listening, rather than speaking, to understand and accept different points of view, common fears and hopes. This helps me to engage more productively and persist even where opinions clash and where positive change is slow and not guaranteed.
- Vision for civil society:
I believe that civil society is strongest and most effective when embracing diversity – our histories, geographies, ages, experiences, cultures, languages and voices. The multiple crises that confront us today require bold decisions and courageous civic action at global and local levels, coupled with more innovative safety nets and protection mechanisms, and a willingness to embrace new actors and allies. I am committed to working towards safer physical and online spaces for civil society, and to improving the sector’s sustainability to better face the challenges and opportunities ahead.
- Lesson(s) I have learnt from failure:
I have never subscribed to the idea of failure. While we always face setbacks in life, I choose not to allow these to disappoint or deter me. I accept these setbacks as opportunities to reflect, learn and recalibrate, after which I focus my eyes and energies forward and continue the journey.
