Egypt’s Minister of Environment appointed as Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

CAIRO – 23 May 2025: The UN Secretary-General announces the appointment of Egyptian Minister of Environment Dr. Yasmine Fouad as the new Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). She succeeds Ibrahim Thiaw of Mauritania in this prominent international role.

The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs welcomed the announcement, made on 22 May 2025, praising Dr. Fouad’s appointment as a testament to Egypt’s growing leadership in environmental diplomacy and sustainable development.

“This appointment to a high-level international position reflects Egypt’s pivotal role—under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi—in promoting global environmental governance and sustainable development,” the Ministry said in an official statement.

The statement emphasized Egypt’s prominent role during its presidency of the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27), which served as a model of responsible leadership that prioritizes balancing economic growth with environmental protection to ensure a sustainable future.

It also underscored the strengthening of Africa’s voice on the global stage, particularly in areas such as climate change adaptation, water security, and energy—issues that were central to Egypt’s environmental agenda.

Dr. Fouad’s appointment is seen as a strong reflection of both her qualifications and Egypt’s steadfast commitment to the objectives of the UNCCD. Her extensive experience in addressing environmental challenges and advancing international sustainability efforts positions her well to lead the Convention at a time when global environmental crises are intensifying.

The Ministry extended its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Fouad, expressing confidence in her ability to succeed in her new responsibilities and to further the global fight against desertification and land degradation.

The UN announced in a statement on May 22 that Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Egypt’s Minister of Environment since 2018, is a seasoned expert in environmental diplomacy with over 25 years of experience. She has led major institutional reforms for sustainable development and played pivotal roles in global environmental negotiations. Internationally, she presided over CBD COP 14, served as UNFCCC COP27 Envoy, co-led the Global Biodiversity Framework 2030 negotiations, and advanced initiatives on adaptation, food security, and climate finance. Regionally, she contributed to African climate strategies through CAHOSCC, AMCEN, and NEPAD, helping drive initiatives like the African Adaptation and Renewable Energy Initiatives.