“Meet Tuya: Supporting the Pacific Sustainable Development pathways as the new multi-country Resident Representative”

August 1, 2023

New Resident Representative for UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji, Munkhtuya (Tuya) Altangerel

Photo: UNDP

31 July 2023, (Suva Fiji) – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) multi-country Pacific Office in Fiji is thrilled to announce the appointment of Munkhtuya (Tuya) Altangerel as its new Resident Representative. In her role, she will serve 10 countries across the Pacific Region - Fiji, the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. 

A seasoned international development practitioner with more than 20 years of relevant experience, Ms. Altangerel brings a wealth of multi-disciplinary expertise, policy research acumen, and adept management skills in complex development settings. Her proficiency as a strategic communicator, particularly in leading policy discussions on sustainable development, has made her an empowered advocate for human rights and gender equality, championing the empowerment of women, youth, and communities across the world.

Prior to her appointment in the Pacific, Ms. Altangerel served with distinction at UNDP Timor-Leste, where her visionary leadership of four years during the dual shocks of COVID-19 and natural disasters was recognized by the leadership of the country with His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, Jose Ramos Horta bestowing upon her the highest honours and the medal Order of Timor-Leste, upon completion of her service to the country. 

With over US$350 million commitments to implement the multi country programme document (MCPD) 2023-2027, the UNDP Pacific Office reaffirms its commitment towards sustainable development in face of climate emergency.

“My appointment as the new Resident Representative for the Pacific Region is a tremendous honor and opportunity. I am committed to working tirelessly with governments, communities, civil society and partners across the Pacific to drive transformative change and foster sustainable development in the face of climate crisis. Together, we can forge strong partnerships to build a more inclusive and resilient future for the region, empowering and amplifying the voices of women, youth, and isolated communities. I am truly excited to embark on this journey and make a positive impact for the people of the Pacific Region," said Tuya Altangerel, newly appointed Resident Representative, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji.

New Resident Representative for UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji, Munkhtuya (Tuya) Altangerel presents her letter of credentials to the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua, at Fiji's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Suva.

Photo: UNDP

During the presentation of her letter of credentials to Lenora Qereqeretabua, the Assistant Minister for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Altangerel emphasized the deep appreciation for the strong partnership between the Government of Fiji and UNDP. She acknowledged Fiji's remarkable contributions on the global stage, particularly in tirelessly amplifying awareness of climate change and advocating for environmental justice, alongside its unwavering commitment to securing resources for climate adaptation. 

In this spirit, UNDP reaffirms its dedication to supporting Fiji and the countries in the Pacific region in addressing its evolving needs. “Together, we value the collaborative strides taken by the Fiji Government and UNDP to tackle climate-related challenges, as we stand resolute in making a meaningful and sustainable difference in the face of climate change and related environmental issues,” Ms. Altangerel said.

Ms. Altangerel’s appointment as the new Resident Representative embodies UNDP's commitment to fostering positive change and advancing the cause of sustainable development in the Pacific region. Her profound experience and dedication to the principles of equality and empowerment makes her an invaluable asset to the UNDP Pacific Office.

New Resident Representative for UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji, Munkhtuya (Tuya) Altangerel presents her letter of credentials to the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua, at Fiji's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Suva. Ms. Altangerel was accompanied by the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji Deputy Resident Representative (Far right) Yemesrach Workie.

Photo: UNDP

"Tuya Altangerel's appointment as the Resident Representative is a moment of celebration for the UNDP Pacific Office. Her impressive credentials and visionary leadership will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to foster inclusive and sustainable development in the Pacific," said Yemesrach Workie, the Deputy Resident Representative for the UNDP Pacific Office.  

Having lived and worked in more than 10 countries around the world, a multi-lingual Ms. Altangerel is a global citizen, but cherishes her rich heritage of her native Mongolia. 

UNDP Pacific Office extends its heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Altangerel on her new role and looks forward to the impactful initiatives she will lead during her tenure as the Resident Representative.

Ms. Altangerel assumed her new role on 24 July 2023, with a tenure of about four-to five years. She succeeded Levan Bouadze, the former Resident Representative.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Emily Moli, Knowledge Communications Analyst, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji, Suva, Fiji. Tel: (679) 322 7 504 Mob: (679) 722 5301

About UNDP Pacific Office:

The United Nations Development Programme Pacific Office in Fiji works to promote inclusive, sustainable human development in the Pacific region, collaborating closely with governments, civil society, and other partners to address pressing development challenges and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).