DAI’s Margie Cook Named Officer of the Order of Australia

January 29, 2019

DAI’s Margie Cook has been named an Officer of the Order of Australia. Cook was recognized on January 26, Australia Day, for her “service to the international community through the promotion of democratic electoral systems, and to human rights,” in a distinguished career that includes work in Afghanistan, Kenya, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe.

Cook, photo left, currently leads the Transparency, Responsiveness, Accountability, and Citizen Engagement (TRACE) programme in Zimbabwe. This U.K. Department for International Development project is assisting with electoral and media reform and helping Zimbabweans gain greater access to information and justice. The project particularly focuses on women’s and girls’ inclusion, human rights, and related public service delivery.

Cook previously led the Drivers of Accountability Programme for DAI, where her team worked with Kenyan government and non-government parties to reduce impunity, deliver legislative reforms, increase accountability, and increase citizen participation. Margie managed electoral programs for the UN from 2001 to 2010 and since 1987 has consulted for Australia’s National Nine Television Network in its national and state election coverage and data program.

The Order of Australia recognizes Australian citizens and others for achievement or meritorious service. Officer of the Order of Australia represents the second-highest level of appointment to the Order. Nominations are reviewed by the Council for the Order of Australia and approved by the Governor-General, Australia’s representative of the Australian monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. The Order is awarded on Australia Day and on the Queen’s Birthday public holiday in June.