UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, appointed popular Bangladeshi musician and actor, Tahsan Khan, as its first Goodwill Ambassador in Bangladesh.
Tahsan will join almost 30 UNHCR Goodwill Ambassadors globally, who help to highlight the situation of refugees and the work of UNHCR in every corner of the world, through their influence, dedication and hard work, said a press release.
He has been supporting UNHCR's advocacy and outreach activities since 2019. He visited the Rohingya refugee settlements in Cox's Bazar, and supported UNHCR in the promotion of World Refugee Day and other events.
Through these engagements, Khan has witnessed the complex Rohingya humanitarian response in Cox's Bazar, met with refugees, and deepened his understanding of the root causes of displacement.
Regarding the appointment, Khan, who is popularly known as Tahsan, said, "I feel privileged and honoured to be engaging with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, which ensures protection, provides life-saving assistance and seeks solutions for millions of refugees and displaced people worldwide. More than one percent of humanity – 1 in every 97 people – are displaced by conflict and persecution."
He also said, "As part of the privileged 99 percent, I feel a moral obligation to offer every support I can extend to uphold their voices".
Steven Corliss, UNHCR's Representative in Bangladesh said, "We are truly honoured and proud that Tahsan has agreed to become UNHCR's Goodwill Ambassador in Bangladesh. Not only is he a brilliant musician and actor, Tahsan is also a passionate refugee advocate and a wonderful human being, who is well-respected and liked in Bangladesh and beyond."
He expressed optimism, saying, "I am very sure that Tahsan will be able to use his reach and influence to give a voice to refugees and advocate for their well-being and protection."
UNHCR engages prominent individuals as Goodwill Ambassadors and supporters as advocates to draw attention to the need of refugees and other forcibly displaced people to be protected, live decently and find solutions for their plight.
BDST: 1911 HRS, JAN 02, 2021
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