Polish politician Szymon Hołowni has criticized the UN’s unexpected appointment of former Iraqi president Barham Ahmed Salih as High Commissioner for Refugees, announcing his own future plans.
Appointment of Barham Ahmed Salih
Reuters reported on 12 December that former Iraqi president Barham Ahmed Salih had been named the new UN High Commissioner for Refugees, a temporary role effective 1 January 2026 pending confirmation by the UNHCR Executive Committee.
Hołowni’s Critique and Surprise
Hołowni stated that the selection was a “surprise for everyone” within the UN, NGOs and UNHCR, noting his limited participation in the campaign and that Iraq does not even ratify the 1951 Refugee Convention, which underpins UNHCR’s mandate.
Concerns About Challenges Ahead
He highlighted key challenges for Salih, including rising refugee numbers, ongoing crises, internal morale, budget issues and the lack of European representation in the decision.
Hołowni’s Future Plans
Hołowni said he will concentrate on learning French and improving his German, aiming to become a polyglot; he remains unsure whether he will ever take on the high‑commissioner role.
