Honorary degree for Scottish Refugee Council CEO on World Refugee Day

Dr Zazai will be awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws at the University’s Graduation ceremony in the Caird Hall this afternoon.

Dr Zazai is an activist and campaigner who has dedicated his life to securing the rights and improving the lives of refugees and asylum seekers.

Born and raised in Kabul, Sabir’s peaceful life was thrown into chaos after the outbreak of war in 1992. His family lived for years in a United Nations refugee camp on the border with Pakistan with millions of other displaced Afghans. He endured months of danger and hardship travelling across Europe in search of safety, arriving in Britain in 1999.  

For the past seven years, he has served as Chief Executive of the Scottish Refugee Council. The council offers direct assistance to those fleeing conflict and abuse, assisting them with everything from housing and health to education and employment. It helps communities work in solidarity with refugees, promoting integration and fostering cohesion.

A tireless campaigner for dignity and democracy, for social justice and social change, Sabir has been honoured with Fellowship of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and with an OBE. At a time when forced migration – whether the result of war, persecution or climate change – is only on the increase, Sabir’s leadership demonstrates how and why a compassionate and welcoming response is so vital.