Angelina Jolie Bids Goodbye To Her United Nations Special Envoy Role After Two Decades
Last Friday, Angelina Jolie shared a heartfelt statement to let her fans and followers know that she was moving on and stepping down from one of the most critical roles in her career. After 21 years, Angelina ended her role as a refugee agency envoy of the United Nations.
Angelina left these responsibilities behind as she wanted to work closer to those the disasters had directly impacted.
The 47-year-old Tomb Raider actress made her departure public and emphasized how the UNHCR is full of amazing people. The star, who had just returned from Washington to converse with politicians about crime victim legislation, confirmed that, despite no longer being part of the UNHCR, she would remain dedicated to working with refugees for the entirety of her life.
To reminisce about her time with advocacy, Angelina uploaded an old photo of herself in action as a refugee envoy. Along with the throwback picture was a meaningful and powerful message, “After over 20 years, I am stepping down today from my work with the UN Refugee Agency.”
It went on, “I believe in many things the UN does, particularly the lives it saves through emergency relief. The UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) has amazing people who strive to make a difference in people’s lives daily.”
The Hollywood A-list celebrity also wholeheartedly acknowledged the refugees, stating, “Refugees are the people I admire most in the world, and I am dedicated to working with them for the rest of my life.”
Angelina then provided an overview of her decision to leave her envoy role by explaining, “I will be working now with organizations led by people most directly affected by conflict, that give the greatest voice to them.”
To back up Angelina’s statement and decision, the United Nations refugee agency released a joint statement with her, confirming that the actress will continue working “to engage on a broader set of humanitarian and human rights issues.”
Angelina’s work with the UN refugee agency can be traced back to 2001, when she was assigned as a UNHCR goodwill ambassador. In 2012, she was appointed a special envoy and was one of the most prominent ambassadors in the history of the organization.
Throughout her career as a special envoy, Angelina has traveled on field missions. This is to bear witness to the stories and current predicaments of the people impacted by crises and offer hope to the victims. The last field mission that the actress took was to Burkina Faso, taking her total to over 60 missions.
Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, has nothing but commendation and appreciation for Angelina’s hard work and dedication. He mentioned that he has her support as the actress shifts her engagement and methodology of helping.
The commissioner is also confident that Angelina will have the same attention and zeal as she embarks on a more comprehensive humanitarian mission and that refugees from around the globe will always hold a special place in the actress’ heart.
