Ambassador Sarah Safyn Fyneah formally steps down from her role as Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
During her tenure, Ambassador Fyneah played a pivotal role in advancing Liberia’s diplomatic priorities, as well as amplifying Liberia’s voice in key areas such as Security Council reform, climate change, and the Women, Youth, Peace, and Security agenda.
During her meeting with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, on Monday, October 7, 2024, Ambassador Fyneah expressed gratitude to President Joseph Boakai, for the trust and confidence placed in her to continue to serve her country under his leadership for the past eight months; and conveyed Liberia’s enduring gratitude to the United Nations for its critical role in sustaining peace and strengthening the country’s democracy.
Ambassador Fyneah’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Liberia’s diplomatic engagement with the UN. “I step down from my role with a sense of fulfillment and pride, knowing that under the leadership of President Boakai, we have strengthened Liberia’s global reputation and prepared the nation to contribute meaningfully to global peace and security.
Ambassador Fyneah has also played a pivotal role to help strengthen Liberia’s global standing, and fostered strong partnerships within the international community, while advancing Liberia development and peacebuilding ARREST Agenda.
In response, the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres commended Liberia’s Representative to the United Nations, for her commitment to advancing Liberia’s values and belief in the core principles of the United Nations Charter, particularly during a period of heightened global polarization and challenges to international peace and security.
He praised her leadership in representing Liberia during this crucial time and spearheading efforts to secure a non-permanent seat for Liberia on the UN Security Council for the 2026-2027 term.
In her farewell, Ambassador Fyneah expressed her gratitude to the Secretary-General and the United Nations for the opportunity to serve and reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to supporting the work of the United Nations.
“It has been an immense honor to represent Liberia at the United Nations and to contribute to the global effort to promote peace, security, and human rights,” Ambassador Fyneah said.
“Under the leadership of Secretary-General Guterres, the UN continues to be a beacon of hope for nations around the world, and Liberia remains steadfast in its commitment to the UN’s mission,” She added.
Ambassador Fyneah has an extensive diplomatic experience across Africa, the Middle East, and the United States.
Her career began with the initiation of Liberia’s Development Diplomacy Program in Sierra Leone, setting the stage for a distinguished path in international relations.
Throughout her career, Ambassador Fyneah has held significant roles including Assistant Minister and Special Assistant to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, where she made substantial contributions under the leadership of three successive Ministers of Foreign Affairs.
Before her current appointment, she was stationed in Washington, D.C. as Minister Plenipotentiary and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Liberian Embassy.
She also held the position of Chargé d’Affaires a.i. at Liberia’s Embassy and Permanent Mission to the African Union and Economic Commission for Africa in Ethiopia.
In addition to her diplomatic duties, Ambassador Fyneah has garnered considerable expertise in political affairs, public information, and gender advocacy, working with various government, international, and non-governmental organizations.
