Representative
UN Representative New York
UNHRC, ECOSOC, UNODC, ICAT
Kelly Tallon Franklin, a Canadian professional with over 30 years of experience in development and humanitarian action, has a strong background in gender equality, partnerships, governance, and organizational oversight. She has held various leadership positions on boards. Kelly is a significant figure in the field as the IFBPW Co-Chair of the United Nations Standing Committee Working Group on Human Rights. Ms. Franklin is the Founder/CEO of a registered incorporated charity and has facilitated the creation of multiple UN Panels and speaking opportunities for others. Kelly has been instrumental in advancing women and girls through events, mentorship, and guidance; she has overseen the strategic vision and management of organizations focused on empowering women and girls. Her work in humanitarian action involves bringing together diverse stakeholders to address critical issues like human trafficking, domestic violence, poverty, human rights, and illiteracy. She is vital in promoting inclusive business coordination opportunities for victims/survivors, marginalized women, and girls through inter-agency working groups, projects, and policy consultations. Critical accolades and acknowledgments are: Queen Elizabeth II Medals (3) 2019-2022, Governors Honor - House of Representatives 2023, Entered into USA Congressional Record as Justice Champion 2021, CoC Women of Impact Award 2021, USA Congresswoman Award 2020, BPWC Leadership Merit 2019 Ambassador Distinction in Human Rights 2018, Governor General Distinction 2018, Appointment to Canada Service Award 2017. Also a 3x #1 Best Selling Author and most recent recipient of the esteemed Global Medal of Honor - Girls Rights 2024 advocates as a human trafficking and exploitation survivor for survivor-led inclusion in all matters.
Fully dedicated to advancing agreed strategies within IFBPW, the UN Standing Committee, and the Executive, Kelly demonstrates her commitment to fulfilling Sustainable Development Goals in her work and collaboration. She is a Core Group Secretary for Caucus Europe and North America, working on B+30, CEDAW, and like treaties in developing briefs and presentations with members and in member-state engagements to inform policy and advance the human rights of women and girls. She enjoys her family time with her husband, George, four adult children, their spouses, and eleven grandchildren, along with her horse and dog, travel, ethnic food, music, and arts.
Kelly has served on humanitarian aid, front line, and missional teams that include South Africa, Costa Rica, Los Angeles, USA (skid row), and multiple inner city and rural communities in Canada and globally. Kelly’s family exposed her to cross-border life between Ontario and New York at a young age, which she continues to enjoy, and which has shaped her global perspective and adaptability.
