Kristen Walling is a Program Manager for Democracy International who supports global and rapid response programs. With nearly 15 years of experience in advancing gender equality and human rights globally, she has extensive expertise in gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and response, with an emphasis on survivor-centered approaches. Her work includes designing and implementing Safeguarding/Do No Harm trainings worldwide, managing emergency assistance for survivors of extreme GBV and trafficking, supporting women’s economic empowerment (WEE) programs, advancing women’s climate leadership, and leading initiatives to end female genital mutilation and cutting in West Africa and East Asia. Recently, she managed a gender integration program at the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative, focusing on GBV, Women Peace and Security, and WEE.

Ms. Walling also has experience working on a range of public policy issues, including anti-trafficking, sexual and gender-based violence, domestic and intimate partner violence, military sexual assault, gun violence, and economic security. She served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Madagascar, working on maternal and child health in the Menabe and Amoron’i Mania regions.

In addition to her international work, Ms. Walling holds a Master of Public Administration from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from American University.