Internationally recognized for his strategic leadership, Colin holds the position of Honorary Chair of the International Disability Alliance (IDA) and Honorary President of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD). As former President of WFD (2011–2019) and Chair of IDA (2016–2018), he led high-level advocacy at the United Nations and secured major advances in sign language recognition and interpreter standards, including the establishment of the WFD–WASLI International Sign Interpreter Accreditation.

Colin has advised governments, UN agencies, and international NGOs, contributing to global projects on Deaf rights, organizational development, and safeguarding. His mentorship supports interpreters, Deaf leaders, and organizations worldwide. He has authored key publications on human rights, Deaf leadership, and interpreting in crisis contexts.

Among his many awards, he is the recipient of the Member of the Order of Australia (AM), Dr. Liisa Kauppinen Human Rights Award, and an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Heriot-Watt University. 

PUBLICATIONS:

• Liu, H., Russell, D., & Allen, C. (2023). How did translators and interpreters in crisis communications get ignored?:
• Russell, D., & Allen, C. (2021). Global Pride: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Interpreting
• Allen, C., Kurz, K., & Russell, D. (2021). A global report: International Perspectives on Leadership Among Deaf and Interpreter Communities
• Haualand H., & Allen, C. (2009). Deaf People and Human Rights, World Federation of the Deaf and Swedish National Association of the Deaf
• Allen, C. Walters, & S., Emerson, S. (2007). Balkan Survey Report