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Portrait of Riyad H. Mansour

Riyad H. Mansour

Influential Palestinian UN diplomat

Born
1947
Born in
Ramallah, Palestine
Read Riyad’s story2 videosAsk about Riyad

Why Riyad is here

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

Their story

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.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Riyad’s path.

  1. 1947

    Born in Ramallah

    Grew up in a refugee family, which shaped his early experiences and future dedication to the Palestinian cause.

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  2. 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.

  3. 1983

    Joined PLO Diplomatic Service

    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.

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  4. 2005

    Appointed Permanent Observer to the UN

    Took on the role of Permanent Observer, where he has since been a steadfast advocate for Palestinian rights and representation.

  5. 2012

    Achieved Non-Member Observer State Status for Palestine

    Under his leadership, Palestine's status at the UN was elevated from an "entity" to a "non-Member Observer State" on November 29, 2012.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. 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.

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  2. 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.

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  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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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Watch & listen

Riyad in interviews, talks and coverage.

  • 01Advocacy at the United Nations↗

  • 02Elevation of Palestine's Status at the UN↗

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