Winnie Byanyima, the current Executive Director of UNAIDS, has been appointed as the chairperson of the board of trustees of the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED). This appointment will take effect in January 2027, shortly after she completes her tenure at UNAIDS on December 31, 2026. Byanyima, a renowned advocate for social justice and gender equality, will be leading an institution that has been working for over 50 years on policies and initiatives addressing climate change, nature loss, inequality, and sustainable development.
IIED is an independent policy and research organisation that works with governments, communities, and civil society to address development and environmental challenges. Byanyima's appointment to the helm of IIED places her at the forefront of an institution that shares her commitment to social justice and sustainable development. Her extensive experience in public service and international development, including senior positions at Oxfam International, the United Nations Development Programme, and the African Union Commission, makes her well-suited for this role.
Byanyima has a strong background in public service, having served in political office for 11 years in Uganda. During her time in office, she founded the country's first caucus of women MPs and championed the inclusion of gender equality provisions in the 1995 Constitution. Her international career has been marked by senior positions at prominent organisations, including co-chairing the World Economic Forum and advising G7 and G20 presidencies on gender equality and wealth inequality.
Upon announcing her departure from UNAIDS, Byanyima expressed her commitment to leading the organisation with energy and determination until the final day of her mandate. UNAIDS congratulated her on her new appointment, crediting her with steering the global HIV/AIDS programme through a period of significant challenges and institutional transformation. The organisation praised her leadership, which has been based on evidence, data, and human rights, with people living with HIV and communities at the centre.
Commenting on her appointment to IIED, Byanyima said she was honoured to join the organisation at a difficult time for the sustainable development sector and multilateralism. She expressed her belief in the importance of working in partnership with communities, policymakers, and civil society organisations to promote sustainable and equitable solutions to global development challenges.
IIED Executive Director Tom Mitchell welcomed Byanyima's appointment, highlighting her experience, commitment to social justice, and ability to build partnerships as key strengths that will strengthen the organisation's work. Outgoing board chair Paul George described Byanyima as an outstanding leader with a strong commitment to IIED's mission, expressing his delight that she has agreed to become the organisation's chair.
Byanyima's new role at IIED comes with a clear mandate to promote sustainable and equitable solutions to global development challenges. With her extensive experience and commitment to social justice, she is well-positioned to lead the organisation in its mission to advance fairer and more sustainable futures. Her appointment has been met with enthusiasm from IIED staff and partners, who look forward to working with her to address the complex development and environmental challenges facing the world today.
Key points
- Winnie Byanyima to assume new role as chairperson of IIED board of trustees in January 2027
- Byanyima completes her tenure at UNAIDS on December 31, 2026
- IIED works on policies and initiatives addressing climate change, nature loss, inequality, and sustainable development
