Ruth Tanner is the Head of Humanitarian Campaigns & Advocacy for Oxfam GB. She works to influence international responses to conflicts and disasters, raising funds for relief work and pressing for swifter aid and ending the root injustices. She tries and amplifies the voices of refugees, displaced people, and anyone affected by conflict and support people to rebuild their lives and stand up for their rights.
1 Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
London is home though. Its such a vibrant place that it keeps me on my toes.
2 What are your proudest achievements?
In 2015 and 2016, I was working with Oxfam helping refugees fleeing Syria and seeking safety in Europe. The dignity of the families in such difficult circumstances was humbling. I was proud to be able to shine a light on the failures of governments to give them the protection they deserved & do what I could to make their journey safer.
3 What insprires you?
I am constantly inspired by amazing, energetic and passionate grassroots activists and brave human rights defenders.
4 What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
To be honest, I think I've been incredibly lucky. No complaints.
5 Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
The anti war movement that tried to stop the war on Iraq. I was young, optimistic and convinced we'd stop it. We didn't & the result was devastating. I have tried to work for peace & justice ever since.
6 What is the best aspect about your current role?
Oxfam is campaigning to keep refugee families together. I am so heartened to see that welcome communities are offering refugees start a new life in the UK. Across the country people are offering homes, friendship, advice and support. We just need the governments policy to be this compassionate.
7 And the worst?
The scale of crisis & the horror of war can feel overwhelming for all of us. As a campaigner, I try to identify where we can really make a difference and support people to take action. Getting this right makes the job worth while.
8 What are your long term goals?
I think we're seeing at the moment that progress isn't something you can count on. My long term goal is to stay optimistic & not give up.
9 If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
There are so many things, but if I could chose one thing to deliver today it would be an end to the sale of arms to Saudi Arabia for use in Yemen. The UK government is supporting peace talks and giving large amounts of humanitarian aid – but it continues to fuel the conflict by selling fighter jets, bombs, and missiles to the coalition led by Saudi Arabia. The government’s decision to continue selling arms to Saudi Arabia, is unlawful, some of the UK’s top judges have ruled. If I was the Prime Minister, I would stop fuelling the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
10 If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why.
Frida Kahlo - I think we'd have a lot to talk about & I've always wanted to learn to paint.
