Oxfam statement on the death of Jo Cox

Jo Cox worked for Oxfam GB and Oxfam International between 2001 and 2009 in a variety of different roles. As head of Oxfam's Brussels office she spearheaded Oxfam's campaign for trade reform. In 2005 she joined Oxfam GB as head of advocacy.

Jo was a passionate advocate on humanitarian issues including the conflicts in Darfur and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her commitment to humanitarian issues led her to become head of humanitarian campaigns for Oxfam International in New York in 2007 for two years.

Max Lawson of Oxfam who worked closely with her said:

"Jo was a diminutive pocket rocket from the north. She was as a ball of energy, always smiling, full of new ideas, of idealism, of passion. She gave so much to Oxfam.

"She was an inspiring leader, really bringing the best out of all of us, always positive, always believing we could win, and always passionate for change. She was particularly brilliant at bringing huge energy to our campaigning around the desperate humanitarian crisis in Darfur."

Jo met her husband, Brendan working for Oxfam.

Oxfam GB's Chief Executive, Mark Goldring, said:

"Oxfam is proud of the role that Jo played in our work over a decade. Many of our colleagues remember her fondly. The rest of us followed her work with admiration. She never lost her passion for peace, justice and equality. Everyone is deeply shocked to hear the news. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brendan and Jo's family at this difficult time."