Kanbar Hossein-Bor is set to make history as the first individual with a refugee background to serve as the UK’s High Commissioner to another country, specifically Fiji, a role he will officially begin in July 2025. This achievement is particularly significant given that Hossein-Bor, who fled Iran as a child in 1987 without speaking English, views this position as a chance to enhance the strong ties between the UK and Fiji.
In expressing his sentiments about his journey, Hossein-Bor conveyed his deep appreciation to the British people for their support and the opportunities they provided him. He aims to alter the perceptions surrounding refugees and asylum seekers, advocating that many, like himself, contribute positively to society. “Britain has given me all these opportunities, and my career is a sense of me giving back,” he stated, emphasizing his desire to inspire a new understanding of what it means to be British.
His role will not only involve diplomatic duties in Fiji but will also extend to non-resident responsibilities in Kiribati, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. This multifaceted appointment highlights the UK’s commitment to strengthening its diplomatic presence in the Pacific, a region that has been increasingly prioritized for international cooperation.
In light of recent appointments within the Pacific, such as Tukabu Tauati as Kiribati’s new High Commissioner to Fiji and Peter Roberts as Australia’s High Commissioner to Fiji, there is a growing optimism in diplomatic relations amongst Pacific nations. These changes are seen as pivotal in promoting unity and addressing common challenges such as trade, security, and environmental issues, thereby fostering stability and prosperity in the region.
Commenting on the significance of this new chapter, it is clear that Hossein-Bor’s appointment symbolizes hope and the potential for a more inclusive understanding of identity and contribution in diplomatic roles, setting a promising tone for future collaborations between the UK and Fiji.
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