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Angelina Jolie, one of the most well-known members of the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) organization, has announced that she will be "continuing" in her role as a UNHCR ambassador, but will be shifting her focus to engage more directly with refugees and local organizations.
Jolie has served as a UNHCR ambassador since 2001, visiting numerous war-torn areas on humanitarian missions. In her statement, she expressed her desire to advocate for refugees in a "broader" way. "I will continue to do everything in my power in the years to come to support refugees and other displaced people," Jolie said.
"After 20 years working within the UN system, I feel it is time for me to work differently, engaging directly with refugees and local organizations, and supporting their advocacy for solutions." Over the past two decades, Jolie has visited 60 locations, including Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, bringing attention to often-overlooked areas and highlighting the plight of refugees through her media presence and Hollywood platform.
UNHCR High Commissioner Filippo Grandi praised Jolie's commitment to the refugee cause and expressed his support for her decision to shift her engagement. He stated, "I know the refugee cause will remain close to her heart, and I am certain she will bring the same passion and attention to a wider humanitarian portfolio." Jolie's dedication to supporting refugees and other displaced people has been evident throughout her career, and it is clear that she will continue to do everything in her power to aid those in need.
Her decision to work more closely with refugees and local organizations is sure to have a significant impact on their advocacy efforts and the overall efforts to support and protect refugees around the world.
Jolie and UNHCR's joint statement:
“Angelina Jolie has been an important humanitarian partner of UNHCR for very long.
We are grateful for her decades of service, her commitment, and the difference she has made for refugees and people forced to flee. After a long and successful time with UNHCR, I appreciate her desire to shift her engagement and support her decision.
I know the refugee cause will remain close to her heart, and I am certain she will bring the same passion and attention to a wider humanitarian portfolio. I look forward to our continued friendship,” said UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi.
Ms. Jolie said: “I am grateful for the privilege and opportunity I have had to work with so many outstanding and dedicated UNHCR field officers and other colleagues doing lifesaving work globally, and to serve as Special Envoy.
I will continue to do everything in my power in the years to come to support refugees and other displaced people. After 20 years working within the UN system I feel it is time for me to work differently, engaging directly with refugees and local organisations, and supporting their advocacy for solutions”.