Secretary-General Appoints Rita Columbia of United States United Nations Resident Coordinator in North Macedonia

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Rita Columbia of the United States as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in North Macedonia, with the host Government’s approval, starting on 14 September.

Dr. Rita Columbia brings 20 years of experience in international development, humanitarian assistance, and management.  Prior to her latest appointment, she served as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Representative in Iraq, as well as the Fund’s Representative in the Republic of Moldova and Country Director for Albania.  She also served on the senior management team of the UFPA Regional Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Ms. Columbia holds a master’s degree in non-profit and health management from New York University, a master’s degree in public administration from Kazakhstan Institute of Management, Economy and Prognosis, and a medical degree from Kazakhstan National Medical University.