On Friday, former Iraqi President Barham Salih was elected as the 12th UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

“I am honoured to have been elected as the incoming United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees,” Salih posted on X. 

“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,” he added. 

In a congratulatory letter to Dr. Barham Salih, Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani extended his warmest congratulations on Salih’s election. “I am delighted that a Kurd has taken up this important role. I am confident that you will continue to excel.”

“Having been a refugee himself, he brings powerful lived experience to lead UNHCR,” the UN refugee agency said in a post. “We’re excited to welcome him soon.”

Filippo Grandi, the outgoing head of the agency, welcomed the election of Salih as the next UN refugee chief and wished him and the UNHCR success.