Stéphanie David appointed Secretary General of the World Organisation Against Torture

Geneva, (10 July 2026) — The World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT) today announced the appointment of Stéphanie David as its next Secretary General. A lawyer and advocate with more than two decades defending civic space and human rights defenders in some of the world’s most challenging environments, Ms David takes up her functions on 1 August 2026. She succeeds Gerald Staberock, who steps down after 16 years leading OMCT.

Her appointment follows an extensive international search by OMCT’s Executive Council.

As Middle East and North Africa Director at FIDH, Ms David established and led the organisation’s first regional office in the region. As FIDH’s Representative to the United Nations in New York, she led engagement with the UN Security Council and General Assembly, securing human rights and gender-responsive language in key resolutions. More recently, as an independent expert, she has advised the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism on mainstreaming human rights and gender and supported survivor-centred reparations work with the Global Survivors Fund.

Ms David is no stranger to OMCT. Through the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders, the joint OMCT–FIDH partnership, she has worked closely with the organisation for years - a shared history that underpins her commitment to coordinated, evidence-based action.

“I am honoured to take on this responsibility at such a decisive moment. In an era where facts are contested and fundamental principles under attack, our task is clear: to stand with victims and defenders, to amplify local voices, and to hold power to account through rigorous work. I look forward to strengthening the collective capacity of our movement to prevent torture and protect those who defend human rights everywhere” said Stéphanie David, incoming Secretary General of OMCT

The appointment closes a defining era under Gerald Staberock. Over 16 years, he reinforced its footprint through dynamic regional offices and in-country presence, expanded the reach of the SOS-Torture Network, and placed human rights defenders at the heart of the organisation's identity.

“Leading OMCT has been the privilege of my professional life. What we have built together - with our SOS-Torture Network members, our partners and the survivors and defenders at the heart of this movement - belongs to all of us. I leave the organisation in strong and capable hands, and Stéphanie David will have my full support through the transition and beyond.” added Gerald Staberock, outgoing Secretary General of OMCT

Mr Staberock will remain available to ensure a smooth handover, working alongside the incoming Secretary General to ensure continuity across OMCT’s programmes and partnerships.

Media contact
Francesca Pezzola, OMCT Director of Communications, fpe@omct.org