Human Rights First Names Uzra Zeya as President and CEO
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New York, NY – Human Rights First, a leading international human rights organization founded in 1978 to advance freedom and protect rights, announced the selection of renowned foreign policy leader and lifelong human rights advocate Uzra Zeya as its next President and CEO. With decades of leadership acumen in international peace, security, and human rights, Zeya brings unparalleled expertise, superb strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to the protection of vulnerable populations, democracy, and fundamental freedoms. She will take office on April 21st, succeeding Susan Hendrickson who will continue to serve on Human Rights First’s Board of Directors.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Uzra as the next President and CEO of Human Rights First,” said Board Co-Chair Lynda Clarizio. “Uzra’s impressive track record of championing human rights both inside and outside of government makes her the ideal leader for this moment. At a time when democracy is under siege, authoritarianism is on the rise, and human rights are at risk both at home and abroad, Uzra brings the experience and perspective needed to further the ongoing pursuit of freedom, justice and accountability.”
Zeya has devoted her career to protecting vulnerable communities, advancing democracy and upholding human rights for all. From 2021 to 2025, she served as Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, and led U.S. efforts to support refugees, expand humanitarian partnerships, defend democracy, and counter human rights abuses globally. Her accomplishments include launching the first-ever private sponsorship plan for refugees in the United States, rebuilding the U.S. refugee resettlement program and enabling it to welcome more refugees than it had in the previous 30 years, expanding global partnerships to combat gender-based violence and increase disability and LGBTQI+ inclusion, helping secure the release of hundreds of political prisoners, and introducing new accountability tools to curb transnational repression and the misuse of commercial spyware. She served concurrently as the U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan issues, rallying international solidarity in support of the human rights of the Tibetan people and safeguarding their cultural, religious and linguistic identity.
Outside of government, Zeya led the Alliance for Peacebuilding, a global network of over 200 organizations working for peace in more than 180 countries. While there, she co-led an NGO coalition that succeeded in securing the bipartisan passage of the Global Fragility Act, landmark legislation that prioritizes preventive diplomacy over more costly, military interventions.
Her distinguished diplomatic career included leadership roles as Acting Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, advising Secretaries of State Clinton and Rice, and assignments in Paris, New Delhi, Muscat, Damascus, Cairo, and Kingston. She received numerous awards recognizing her contributions to a more just and peaceful world, including the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Award, the French Legion D’Honneur, and the Cross of Commander of the Order of the Lithuanian Grand Duke Gediminas.
“The entire Board of Directors is looking forward to working alongside such a staunch defender of human rights,” said Donald Donovan, Board Co-Chair. “Uzra’s depth of experience, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to human dignity will ensure that Human Rights First rises to meet today’s immense challenges. At a time when democratic values are under attack worldwide, we are confident that Uzra’s leadership will drive bold, innovative action to confront threats to freedom and justice.”
Her appointment was also praised by leading human rights and humanitarian voices.
Richard Gere, Chair, International Campaign for Tibet, said, “I commend Human Rights First for selecting Uzra Zeya as its next President and CEO. Having worked extensively with Uzra in her role as U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, I have seen first-hand her passion, tenacity, and ability to translate legislation and policy into real-world results that protect people. Human Rights First could not be in better hands.”
Michael Posner, Director, Center for Business and Human Rights at the NYU Stern School of Business, who served as the founding Executive Director of Human Rights First, added, “Uzra is a dynamic leader who throughout her career has demonstrated integrity, vision and courage. I had the privilege of working with her at the State Department where she was widely respected and admired. Uzra is an ideal leader for HRF at this moment. She will challenge the U.S. government when it does not live up to its historic ideals. She also will enhance HRF’s support for and partnership with local human rights activists around the world.”
Nazanin Ash, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State and CEO, Welcome.US said, “I’ve known and admired Uzra for over two decades, serving together under both Republican and Democratic administrations working to secure human rights globally. Her unparalleled policy chops, diplomatic experience, commitment to human dignity and the fulfillment of human potential make her a tremendous force for good in the world, and her openness to innovation makes her a leader for our times. Her sage leadership will empower Human Rights First to meet today’s unique challenges.”
“I am honored to lead Human Rights First at this existential crossroads for human rights and democracy worldwide,” said Zeya. “For nearly five decades, this organization has stood on the frontlines of the fight for freedom and justice. Today the threats we face are greater than ever, but so is our resolve. I look forward to building on Sue’s leadership and partnering with the talented and dynamic team at Human Rights First to deploy our collective commitment, expertise and creativity toward making a decisive difference in the fight for rights and freedoms.”
To speak with Zeya, please contact [email protected].
