MWE Correspondent
The United Nations General Assembly has approved the appointment of former Iraqi president Barham Salih as the next head of the UN refugee agency, a decision that carries both symbolic and practical significance at a time of unprecedented global displacement.
With the endorsement, Mr Salih becomes the first leader from the Middle East to take charge of the UN’s refugee agency since the 1970s. His appointment comes as humanitarian needs continue to grow worldwide, driven by conflict, political instability and climate-related crises that have forced millions from their homes.
Mr Salih will lead the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, commonly known as UNHCR, which is responsible for protecting and assisting refugees, asylum seekers and internally displaced people in more than 130 countries. The agency plays a central role in emergency response, legal protection and long-term solutions such as resettlement and integration.
Bringing years of political and diplomatic experience, Mr Salih previously served as Iraq’s president between 2018 and 2022 and held senior government roles during some of the country’s most challenging periods. He is widely regarded as a moderate figure with experience in dialogue and consensus-building, qualities analysts say will be critical as UNHCR navigates complex humanitarian and political environments.
The approval by the General Assembly reflects broad international confidence in his ability to lead the agency at a time when global displacement has reached record levels. According to recent UN figures, more than 110 million people worldwide have been forced to flee due to conflict, persecution or disasters, placing immense pressure on humanitarian systems and host countries.
Mr Salih’s appointment is also seen as symbolically important for the Middle East, a region that has long been both a source of refugees and a major host for displaced populations. Observers believe his background may help amplify perspectives from regions most affected by displacement, while reinforcing calls for shared responsibility among states.
Also Read; Government Nearly Doubles Higher Education Student Loan Budget
Since its creation in 1950, UNHCR has evolved from a small post-war agency into a global humanitarian organisation. As part of the broader United Nations system, it now responds to crises across continents, working closely with governments, civil society and international partners. Its mandate is rooted in international law, including the 1951 Refugee Convention, which defines the rights of refugees and the obligations of states.
Humanitarian experts note that the challenges facing the incoming High Commissioner are formidable. Funding shortfalls persist, even as needs rise, and many refugee-hosting countries are under increasing economic strain. At the same time, protracted conflicts mean that displacement is lasting longer, requiring solutions that go beyond emergency aid to include education, livelihoods and social inclusion.
Mr Salih is expected to assume office later this year, taking over leadership at a critical moment for global refugee protection. His tenure will likely be judged on how effectively UNHCR can mobilise international support, strengthen cooperation with host countries and advocate for the rights and dignity of displaced people.
For millions of refugees worldwide, the hope is that experienced leadership at the top of the agency will translate into stronger protection, renewed global solidarity and more sustainable responses to one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges of the modern era.
