After serving as the Second Vice-Chair of the UNHCR Executive Committee since October 2024, Ethiopia has been elected as the First Vice-Chair of the Committee during the closing session of its 76th meeting on Friday (October 10).
Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew, Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, was nominated by the African Group and seconded by Norway. His candidacy was fully endorsed by the entire membership. Ethiopia’s election to the post, in one of the UNHCR’s key oversight organs responsible for reviewing programs and budgets, underscores the country’s leadership in strengthening the international refugee protection system as enshrined in the 1951 Refugee Convention.
As one of the largest refugee-hosting countries, with over one million refugees from more than twenty nations, Ethiopia’s election to the Bureau of the Executive Committee and its role as First Vice-Chair reflect its long-standing commitment to refugee protection, assistance, and durable solutions. Ethiopia has also pioneered a progressive refugee policy through the 2019 Refugee Proclamation, guaranteeing access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for refugees.
The election comes on the eve of the launch of Makatet, a national initiative designed to promote refugee integration and address the needs of host communities. In its new role, Ethiopia will champion actions that enhance humanitarian responses and strengthen protection for refugees. Together with other members of the Executive Committee, Ethiopia will help shape international refugee policies that promote the rights of refugees and support host countries.