Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert appointed head of United Nations safety and security

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert as under-secretary-general for safety and security at the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS).

She succeeds Canadian Gilles Michaud, whose leadership and dedication were praised during his tenure serving the organization in a particularly complex international context. The appointment comes at a time of intensifying global security challenges, requiring enhanced international coordination and high-level diplomatic expertise.

A key role in Lebanon during a critical period

Since 2024, Hennis-Plasschaert had served as the United Nations special coordinator for Lebanon. Her mission unfolded during a particularly delicate period for the country, amid unprecedented political, economic and security crises, as well as heightened regional tensions.

During her tenure, Hennis-Plasschaert played a significant role in efforts to preserve Lebanon’s stability and maintain dialogue among Lebanese parties and international partners. Through active diplomacy and a constant presence on the political scene, she contributed to international initiatives aimed at preventing further deterioration of the country’s situation.

Her work was marked by a balanced and pragmatic approach that encouraged dialogue and cooperation at a time when Lebanon faced major challenges. Several observers commended her ability to keep communication channels open between local and international actors, reinforcing the United Nations’ role as a key partner for stability.

Extensive diplomatic and security experience

Before her assignment in Lebanon, Hennis-Plasschaert served as the U.N. secretary-general’s special representative for Iraq and headed the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) between 2018 and 2024. There, she supported efforts toward institutional reconstruction and political dialogue in an environment marked by major security challenges.

Her political career also includes several senior roles in Europe. She served as a member of the European Parliament from 2004 to 2010, then as a member of the Dutch House of Representatives from 2010 to 2012. She was subsequently appointed Dutch defense minister in 2012, a position she held for five years.

Earlier in her career, she worked for the European Commission in Belgium and Latvia, as well as for the city of Amsterdam and in the private sector.

With more than 30 years of experience in diplomacy, mediation and international security, Hennis-Plasschaert brings widely recognized expertise to her new role.

Her appointment reflects the United Nations’ commitment to relying on experienced professionals capable of addressing the growing challenges linked to international security and the protection of U.N. personnel in crisis zones.