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Riyad H. Mansour

Influential Palestinian UN diplomat

QUICK FACTS

Date of Birth

1947

Ramallah, Palestine

Place of Birth

Why Featured?

Renowned for his diplomatic efforts and persistent advocacy for Palestinian rights and representation at the United Nations.

BRIEF BIO
Riyad H. Mansour is a Palestinian-American diplomat who has served as the Permanent Observer of Palestine to the United Nations since 2005. With a career spanning decades in diplomacy and international advocacy, Mansour has played a critical role in promoting Palestinian rights and raising global awareness about the Israeli occupation of Palestine.
LAST UPDATED

DATE

Monday, January 26, 2026

MAJOR MILESTONES
Key dates & turning points
  • Born in Ramallah (1947): Grew up in a refugee family, which shaped his early experiences and future dedication to the Palestinian cause (Celebrity Age Wiki) .

  • Educated in the United States: Obtained a BA in Philosophy from Youngstown State University, an MS in Education Counseling, and a PhD in Counseling from the University of Akron.

  • Joined PLO Diplomatic Service (1983): Began his diplomatic career as the Deputy Permanent Observer of Palestine to the United Nations, marking the start of his significant contributions to Palestinian diplomacy (Nairobi SummitICPD) .

  • Appointed Permanent Observer to the UN (2005): Took on the role of Permanent Observer, where he has since been a steadfast advocate for Palestinian rights and representation.

  • Achieved Non-Member Observer State Status for Palestine (2012): Under his leadership, Palestine's status at the UN was elevated from an "entity" to a "non-Member Observer State" on November 29, 2012.

CONTRIBUTIONS
What they did, and why it matters
  • Advocacy at the United Nations: Mansour has persistently advocated for Palestinian rights, raising awareness about the impact of the Israeli occupation on Palestinians and seeking international support for Palestinian statehood...See More

  • Elevation of Palestine's Status at the UN: Played a key role in achieving the status of "non-Member Observer State" for Palestine at the United Nations, enhancing Palestine's ability to participate in General Assembly debates and activities...See More

  • Humanitarian Efforts: Highlighted the humanitarian crises in Palestinian territories, such as the destruction of homes and the impact of airstrikes on Gaza, bringing these issues to the forefront of international discussions.

  • Educational Contributions: Served as an adjunct professor at the University of Central Florida, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience in political science and international relations with students.

  • International Advocacy and Diplomacy: Represented Palestine in numerous international conferences, symposia, and seminars, working tirelessly to garner global support for the Palestinian cause and ensure the voices of Palestinians are heard worldwide.

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Last updated
Jan 26, 2026

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