Syrian Refugee Turned Pilot Calls for Urgent Global Action at UN Anniversary
Nairobi, 24 January 2026
At the UN’s 80th anniversary conference in London, Maya Ghazal delivered a powerful address emphasising the critical need for international cooperation to protect the world’s displaced populations. The first Syrian refugee woman to become a professional pilot, Ghazal shared her remarkable journey from fleeing Syria in 2015 to achieving her aviation dreams despite being told her aspirations would remain unfulfilled. Her speech highlighted how empowering refugees through education and opportunities enables them to flourish and benefit entire communities, as demonstrated by over 3 million Syrians who have returned home.
Historic Venue Underscores UN’s Legacy
The UNA UK UN 80 Conference took place at Central Hall Westminster in London this weekend, the same historic venue where the first United Nations General Assembly convened 80 years ago [1][3]. UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a keynote address urging delegates to be ‘bold enough to change’ and find ‘the courage of those who came to this Hall 80 years ago to forge a better world’ [3]. The event featured prominent speakers including the President of the General Assembly Annalena Baerbock, UN Champion for Space Professor Brian Cox, and Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh was also in attendance [3].
Refugee Crisis Demands Collective Response
Ghazal’s address comes at a critical juncture when refugee numbers have reached record levels globally [1]. Speaking from personal experience, she emphasised that ‘when I left Syria in 2015, I was told that I would not have the opportunity to continue my studies and that my dreams would remain just that, dreams’ [1]. Despite these initial barriers, her journey demonstrates the transformative power of support systems. ‘My journey as a refugee was filled with uncertainty, fear, and barriers at every turn. But, like many other refugees, I refused to accept that as a fact or as a reason not to try,’ she told the conference [1]. The speech coincides with the approaching 75th anniversary of the Refugee Convention, highlighting the enduring relevance of international refugee protection frameworks [1].
Investment in Refugee Empowerment Yields Community Benefits
Central to Ghazal’s message was the economic and social case for refugee investment. ‘Give displaced people safety, an education, resources, and a platform, and they will do more than just survive. They will flourish,’ she stated [1]. Her advocacy extends beyond individual success stories to systemic change: ‘We must invest in education, job opportunities, and leadership development for refugees, because when they are empowered, entire communities benefit’ [1]. The data supports this approach, with over 3 million displaced Syrians having returned home, demonstrating the potential for successful integration and eventual repatriation [1]. Most refugees remain in regions close to their homes, such as Chad, Jordan, and Bangladesh, placing particular responsibility on neighbouring countries and regional partners [1].
UK’s Role in Supporting Global Refugee Protection
Ghazal highlighted the UK’s vital role in supporting countries to uphold refugee protection standards [1]. This international cooperation framework becomes increasingly important as displacement crises multiply globally. The timing of her speech, occurring within three days of 23 January 2026, underscores the urgency of current refugee protection challenges [1]. Her message resonates beyond the anniversary celebrations, calling for sustained commitment to international cooperation that ensures refugees can find safety, protection, and durable solutions [1]. The conference’s focus on collective action reflects broader discussions within the humanitarian community about strengthening multilateral responses to displacement crises.