Louise Otis

An internationally renowned legal expert, administrative judge, arbitrator, and mediator, Louise Otis is recognized for her expertise in governance, administrative justice, and dispute resolution. A former judge of the Court of Appeal of Quebec, she contributed to more than 3,000 decisions in civil, commercial, and criminal law.

A pioneer of judicial mediation, she initiated mediation systems that are now benchmarks in Quebec and internationally. She has supported major justice system reforms for numerous international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the Global Fund.

Recipient of several medals and honorary distinctions, notably Officer of the Order of Canada and Grand Officer of the Ordre National du Quebec, she will share a nuanced and insightful analysis of progress, resistance, and the essential levers needed to consolidate achievements in gender equality and women’s access to positions of power.