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UN elects former Iraqi President to lead UN refugee agency

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on December 18, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 20, 2026

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UNITED NATIONS, Dec 18 (Reuters) - The United Nations General Assembly on Thursday elected Barham Salih, a former Iraqi president who fled persecution under Saddam Hussein, as the next U.N. High

Barham Salih to Lead UN Refugee Agency from 2026

UNITED ‌NATIONS, Dec 18 (Reuters) - ‍The ‌United Nations General Assembly ⁠on ‌Thursday elected Barham Salih, a former ⁠Iraqi president who fled persecution ​under Saddam Hussein, ‌as the next ⁠U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees. 

Salih was ​elected without a vote by the 193-member assembly after ​U.N. ‍Secretary-General Antonio ​Guterres nominated him to succeed Italy’s Filippo Grandi, who has led the ⁠agency since 2016.

Salih will begin ​a five year term on January 1, 2026. 

(Reporting ‌by Michelle Nichols, Editing by Franklin Paul)

Key Takeaways

  • Barham Salih elected as UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
  • Salih is a former Iraqi President who fled Saddam Hussein's regime.
  • He will succeed Italy's Filippo Grandi in 2026.
  • The election was held without a vote by the 193-member assembly.
  • Salih's term will start on January 1, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a High Commissioner for Refugees?
The High Commissioner for Refugees is the head of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), responsible for protecting and supporting refugees and displaced persons worldwide.
What is the United Nations?
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945, aimed at promoting peace, security, and cooperation among countries to address global challenges.
What is a refugee?
A refugee is a person who has fled their country due to persecution, war, or violence and cannot return safely. They often seek asylum in other countries.

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