Statement by Dr. Barham Salih upon His Election as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

I am honoured to have been elected as the incoming United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. As a former refugee, I know first-hand how protection and opportunity can change the course of a life. That experience will inform a leadership approach grounded in empathy, pragmatism, and a principled commitment to international law. My foremost responsibility will be to refugees and others forced to flee - upholding their rights and dignity and advancing durable solutions so that displacement remains a temporary situation, not a permanent fate.

At a time of record displacement and severe pressure on humanitarian resources, delivering on UNHCR's mandate requires a renewed focus on impact, accountability, and efficiency. This is a shared responsibility. UNHCR will build on the important reforms undertaken in recent years to strengthen operational effectiveness and value for money. I will work with Member States and partners across the public, private, and philanthropic sectors to mobilize the capacity, resources, and collective will needed to reach those most in need.

I am grateful to the Secretary-General, António Guterres, and to the General Assembly for their confidence, and to Filippo Grandi for his principled and tireless leadership during a period of extraordinary global challenge.

I look forward to working closely with UNHCR's dedicated staff, states, partners, host communities, and, most importantly, refugees themselves to advance protection and durable solutions fit for both the promise and the perils of the 21st century.

Barham Salih

On 18 December 2025, the UN General Assembly elected former President of Iraq Barham Salih as new High Commissioner for Refugees. He is expected to assume office on 1 January 2026.