Louise Arbour named Canada's next governor general after decades of legal impact

Louise Arbour, a distinguished jurist and human rights advocate, will soon take on a new role as Canada’s next governor general. Born in Montreal in 1947, she has spent decades shaping legal and humanitarian reforms at home and abroad. Her appointment marks the third consecutive time a Quebec-born leader will hold the position. Arbour began her legal career after earning her degree from the University of Montreal. She clerked at the Supreme Court of Canada before moving to Ontario in the early 1970s. By 1987 Arbour’s career spans decades of legal and humanitarian achievements. From prison reforms in Canada to landmark war crime prosecutions abroad, her influence has been far-reaching. As governor general, she will bring a wealth of experience to the ceremonial role, continuing a tradition of Quebec-born leaders in the position.