Archive · 19 Dec 2025
UN elects former Iraqi President as refugee chief
The United Nations has chosen a new leader for its refugee agency.
His name is Barham Salih, and he used to be the president of Iraq.
He was picked by the UN General Assembly without any voting because the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, recommended him.
Barham Salih will replace Filippo Grandi, who has been in charge of the agency since 2016.
This is an important job because the agency helps people who have to leave their homes because of war or other problems.
Barham Salih, former Iraqi President, elected as the next U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees.
Elected without a vote by the 193-member UN General Assembly.
Nominated by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Succeeds Italy’s Filippo Grandi, who has led the agency since 2016.
Salih fled persecution under Saddam Hussein.
- Who
- Barham Salih, former Iraqi President
- What
- Elected as the next U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees
- When
- December 18
- Where
- United Nations General Assembly
- Why
- To succeed Filippo Grandi, who has led the agency since 2016
- New Leader
- Barham Salih
- Previous Role
- Former Iraqi President
- Agency
- UN High Commissioner for Refugees
- Predecessor
- Filippo Grandi
- Election Date
- December 18
