Justin Bedford
Biography
Justin Bedford was appointed UK Modern Slavery Envoy in October 2023. He was previously Head of NATO Policy and Deputy Head of the joint Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Ministry of Defence Euro-Atlantic Security Policy Unit. From 2016 to 2019 he was Head of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) United Nations Strategy and Political Team.
Justin was Deputy Ambassador to the Holy See from 2009 to 2013. His other roles have focused on European issues, counter-terrorism, international security, and the Sahel and West Africa. He was Private Secretary to the FCO Political Director from 2006 to 2009.
Justin has a Master’s degree in international relations and a Bachelor’s degree in modern languages.
Modern Slavery Envoy
The UK Modern Slavery Envoy works in partnership with states, international organisations, and civil society to build international consensus and encourage joint action to prevent and combat modern slavery, including trafficking in persons.