Iori Kato’s ascent to the role of director and representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for Pacific island nations is both remarkable and inspiring.
Born in Japan to a conventional family—his father worked for a corporation while his mother managed the household—Kato’s early life seemed set on a typical path. However, significant international events during his youth, particularly the end of the Cold War, sparked a shift in his ambitions.
“My high school years coincided with the end of the Cold War and the UN Security Council’s resolution in response to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait,” Kato reflects. “These experiences inspired me to pursue a career in international affairs, steering clear of the business and finance routes many of my classmates chose.”
Motivated by a commitment to global peace and human rights, Kato studied international law and peace studies at university. His initial goal of becoming a journalist transformed as he recognized his desire to implement solutions directly rather than simply report on issues. This drove him to the United Nations, where he began his career with the UN Development Programme (UNDP) in Cambodia, addressing the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Kato has held various positions within UNFPA, including in Bangladesh and the Philippines, where his career has been defined by impactful challenges. In 2017, during the Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh, he managed UNFPA’s response by deploying midwives and introducing “Women Friendly Spaces” for the first time in the country.
“The gratitude expressed by the women we helped was profound,” he recalls. “It was an emotional revelation to witness how our assistance could transform their lives.”
Most recently, Kato faced distinct challenges when he arrived in Vanuatu just prior to Cyclones Judy and Kevin. Stranded by the storms, he assessed the needs of disrupted communities and established Women and Girls Friendly Spaces on Tanna Island, ensuring that women and girls received crucial support amid the devastation.
In his current position with UNFPA Pacific, Kato aims to tackle the high rates of teenage pregnancy and enhance reproductive health services across the region. His dedication to youth empowerment is reflected in UNFPA’s Family Life Education programs, designed to equip young individuals with the skills necessary for a healthier and more just future.
When discussing his guiding principles, Kato highlights empathy and understanding. “I always consider the perspective of those we serve,” he states. “What would they prefer? This mindset clarifies the most effective actions to take.”
Looking ahead, Kato is resolved to eliminate maternal deaths in the Pacific, asserting that “no woman should die giving life.” His initiatives focus on improving maternal and perinatal death surveillance while striving for a zero maternal mortality rate.
For young professionals aspiring to enter the realms of international development and humanitarian efforts, Kato offers valuable advice: “Engagement in development isn’t confined to becoming a UN official. Various roles, from diplomats to journalists, contribute to these missions. The key is to make a difference wherever you are.”
Iori Kato’s journey from a young soccer enthusiast in Japan to a prominent UN official in the Pacific exemplifies a lifelong commitment to service and meaningful change. His story underscores the transformative power of pursuing one’s passions to make a significant global impact.