The new UNFPA Representative in Lebanon, Ms. Anandita Philipose, presented her credentials today to H.E. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants in Lebanon, Dr. Abdallah Bou Habib. Following congratulations on the election of a new President and the nomination of a Prime Minister, Ms. Philipose reiterated UNFPA's commitment to improving the lives of women, girls, young people, and marginalized groups across Lebanon, with a focus on their health, protection, and empowerment.  

Ms. Philipose assumed her role in January 2025. She brings over 18 years of international experience and expertise with the UN in the areas of protection, health, youth engagement, gender equality, and women’s empowerment. Prior to joining the UNFPA Lebanon country office, Anandita was the Deputy Representative of the UNFPA Mali country office where she led a large program in a complex humanitarian and socio-political context. Over the past 18 years, Anandita has worked in development and humanitarian settings at country, regional, and Headquarters levels with UNFPA in West Africa, Southern and East Africa, and Asia-Pacific and other UN agencies such as WFP Headquarters, UN Women in Indonesia and UNESCO headquarters. Ms. Philipose holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Cornell University in New York.