The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has announced the appointment of Rania al-Mashat as Under-Secretary-General and the new Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA).
Distinguished career
Al-Mashat is a distinguished international expert in economic diplomacy, bringing over 25 years of extensive experience in macroeconomic policy, central banking, and monetary policy frameworks.
She holds both a PhD and a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the American University in Cairo.
Additionally, she has completed advanced executive programs in public policy and leadership at Harvard and Oxford Universities.
Her expertise spans sustainable economic and social development, structural and institutional reforms, and development and climate finance.
Furthermore, she has been a prominent advocate for climate action and gender equality through strategic international partnerships.
Prior to this appointment, al-Mashat held several high-ranking positions, serving in ministerial roles for eight consecutive years from 2018 to 2026.
Her portfolios included the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of International Cooperation, and most recently, the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation.
She previously served as Sub-Governor for Monetary Policy at the Central Bank of Egypt, where she played a pivotal role in developing the nation’s monetary policy strategy.
She also served as Senior Economist and Advisor to the Chief Economist at the International Monetary Fund.
Al-Mashat possesses a wealth of experience at the intersection of policy, finance, and international development, having successfully navigated complex economic and geopolitical challenges while maintaining institutional stability during periods of transition.
An important appointment at an important time
Her appointment comes at a critical global juncture.
Increasing challenges in energy markets, global trade, and supply chains have placed additional burdens on the economic and social agendas of nations.
This underscores the vital role of ESCWA in supporting member states to formulate policies capable of addressing immediate and medium-term challenges, while fostering regional cooperation.
The ESCWA is one of five regional commissions under the United Nations. Its mission is to stimulate regional integration, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and support the achievement of sustainable development in member states by balancing economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
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