NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has selected Farah Dakhlallah, a Lebanese and British citizen, to serve as the organization’s spokesperson, succeeding Oana Lungescu. Dakhlallah is set to assume her role in March 2024, bringing a wealth of experience from diverse sectors, including the United Nations, the UK government, and AstraZeneca, along with extensive involvement with various media organizations.
Stoltenberg expressed anticipation for Dakhlallah’s tenure, emphasizing the critical importance of clear and timely communication in today’s increasingly perilous world. The NATO Secretary General highlighted Dakhlallah’s comprehensive background, underscoring her roles in both public and private sectors.
Ms. Dakhlallah, who previously served as the Director of Media Relations for the Middle East and Africa at AstraZeneca, expressed her honor and privilege in assuming the role of NATO Spokesperson during these crucial times. In a statement on her X account, she acknowledged the alliance’s mission to protect over 1 billion people, uphold freedom and democracy, and contribute to global peace.
Dakhlallah’s professional journey includes stints as the Head of Communications at the World Health Organization from 2017 to 2021 and as the Arabic language spokesperson for the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office from 2014 to 2016. Holding an MA in International Relations from Cambridge University and an MA in Media and Communications from the London School of Economics, Dakhlallah’s educational background reflects her commitment to international affairs and communication.
Her appointment is significant against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Ukraine, underscoring the critical role she is poised to play in guiding NATO’s communications during tumultuous global events.