RICHMOND HILL, ON – July 2, 2025 – The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) is honoured to announce that Alexandra (Alex) Bugailiskis, Chair of its International Advisory Committee (IAC), has been appointed to the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian recognitions.
The Governor General acknowledged Bugailiskis for her distinguished 39-year career in Canada’s diplomatic service, including ambassadorships to Syria, Cuba, Poland, and Italy, as well as senior executive roles at Global Affairs Canada. Her leadership has shaped Canadian foreign policy and inspired generations of diplomats.
“We are deeply honoured that Ambassador Bugailiskis’s leadership and contributions to UNU-INWEH were noted in the official appointment citation,” said Professor Kaveh Madani, Director of UNU-INWEH. “Her unwavering commitment to multilateralism, sustainability, and international cooperation has been instrumental in shaping our institute’s global impact.”
As Chair of UNU-INWEH’s (ISC), Bugailiskis has provided strategic guidance and diplomatic insight that have significantly strengthened the institute’s efforts to address global water, environmental, and health challenges.
Her appointment to the Order of Canada reflects extraordinary dedication to diplomacy, public service, and international cooperation. UNU-INWEH is proud to benefit from her leadership and looks forward to continuing its mission with her guidance and support.
Media Contact:
Shooka Bidarian
Media & Journalism Fellow, Sustainability and Climate, United Nations University
shooka.bidarian@unu.edu
About UNU-INWEH
The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) is one of 13 institutions that form the United Nations University (UNU), the academic arm of the United Nations. Hosted by the Government of Canada, UNU-INWEH focuses on major sustainability challenges, addressing critical water, environmental, and health issues worldwide. Through research, training, capacity building, and knowledge dissemination, UNU-INWEH is dedicated to resolving pressing global challenges that are of concern to the United Nations and its member states.
