Deborah Lyons

Deborah Lyons is a distinguished Canadian diplomat with a remarkable career dedicated to international relations and humanitarian efforts. From 2020 to 2022, she held the esteemed position of Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for Afghanistan, where she led the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) during a critical period of transition and challenge.

Before her impactful role at the United Nations, Lyons served as Canada's ambassador to Israel from 2016 to 2020, and prior to that, she was the ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan from 2013 to 2016. Her extensive experience in these pivotal regions has equipped her with a deep understanding of complex geopolitical dynamics.

In October 2023, Deborah Lyons was appointed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as Canada's Special Envoy on Holocaust Remembrance and Combating Antisemitism, a role that underscores her commitment to human rights and the fight against discrimination. Her career reflects a steadfast dedication to fostering peace and understanding on the global stage.