Actor Theo James named UNHCR global goodwill ambassador

Theo James Named UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador to Advocate for Refugees (Reuters)
British actor Theo James, known for his roles in "The Gentlemen" and "The White Lotus," has been appointed a global Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the agency announced on Monday.

James, a longtime supporter of UNHCR since 2016, has personally visited Greece, France, and Jordan to meet with asylum seekers and refugees. He credits his own family history with inspiring his dedication to the cause.

"My grandfather was forced to flee Greece during World War II, making a perilous journey by boat to Syria," James said in a statement. "His courage and resilience in rebuilding his life as a doctor deeply affected me."

He continued, "The Syrian people welcomed him and offered him shelter, allowing him to start anew. This experience underscores the importance of standing in solidarity with today's refugees fleeing conflict. Sharing their stories is crucial. Their need for support is ever-present."

UNHCR's High Commissioner recently reported a record 117.3 million people forcibly displaced at the end of 2023, a number that could increase further without global political action.

"Becoming a refugee is not a choice," James emphasized. "However, we can choose how we respond to those desperately seeking sanctuary. Their lives depend on it."