UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen has announced his unexpected resignation after more than six-and-a-half years in the role, the United Nations said on Friday.
The 69-year-old Norwegian informed UN Secretary General António Guterres of his decision to step down for personal reasons and the secretary general accepted his request, according to a UN statement.
Pedersen will leave his post in the near future but will “remain fully engaged” in his duties until his final day, the statement said.
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Following the ousting of long-time Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Pedersen was tasked with supporting state institutions under the Islamist-led transitional government and facilitating discussions on a new constitution under a UN resolution.
In March, he expressed deep concern over clashes between security forces and al-Assad loyalists, calling for the protection of civilians.
The envoy mediated political processes aimed at a peaceful resolution to the Syrian conflict, coordinated humanitarian aid, and promoted international support for reconstruction.
Pedersen told the UN Security Council that “today, Syria and the Syrian people have a new dawn, and we must ensure that this becomes a bright day.
“They deserve this so much.” He expressed profound gratitude to the Syrian population for its courage and humanity over the years.
(dpa/NAN)