Reem Najjar (1957–2026)
Reem Najjar, passed away on May 3, 2026.
A cornerstone of UNICEF Jordan and MENARO for over three decades, Reem began her career in the mid-1980s and served until her retirement in 2017. Her career spanned operations, partnerships, and communications, but she was perhaps most respected for her leadership as Chairperson of both the Jordan and Regional Staff Associations. In these roles, she was a vital advocate for workplace dialogue and staff welfare across the Middle East.
Beyond her service with UNICEF, Reem was a formidable leader in the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA). She served globally as Vice President of the World YWCA and as President of the YWCA of Jordan. Reem championed vocational training, economic empowerment, and the leadership of young women. Recognized as a pioneer of women’s work, she spent her life bridging local community needs with global advocacy.
Reem leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, selfless service, and a commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.
Condolences: Condolences may be sent to her brother, Rajaii Najjar, via WhatsApp at 00962795966600.
Remembering Reem Najjar: Her Warmth Will Never Be Forgotten
ReplyDeleteYesterday, May 5th, we found ourselves bidding farewell to a colleague and dear friend, Reem Najjar, who sadly passed away on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026. The news came as a deeply unwelcome shock to me and my family, as it did to many of our UNICEF colleagues—both former and current.
Reem was a vibrant and warm presence. She brought people together—whether through Ramadan and Christmas gatherings or farewell events for colleagues starting new chapters—always ensuring that everyone felt included and truly enjoyed the moment. She also stood firmly for staff rights, serving as Chairperson of the Staff Association and being a strong, trusted voice for others.
Her personal life reflected the same generosity and commitment. As former President of the Young Women's Christian Association in Jordan, she dedicated herself to humanitarian work and volunteerism, advocating for women, youth, and vulnerable communities. Her efforts reached places like Baqa’a Camp and supported families facing domestic violence.
Reem was known for her leadership, kindness, and deep belief that women’s empowerment is a daily practice. She initiated impactful programs, supported communities locally and internationally, and represented her country with dignity in global forums.
She leaves behind a lasting legacy—one of humanity, warmth, and unwavering dedication to others.
I will miss her daily morning greetings and our phone calls. May you rest in eternal peace, my friend.
Mary Sidawi
Your colleague and friend
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DeleteIt was with great shock and deep sadness that I learned of the passing of our dear Reem.
My first impression of Reem was her remarkable dedication in helping me settle into Amman when I arrived in 1998 to serve as UNICEF Representative. She thoughtfully organized house-hunting visits, ensuring I found a place to call home. Some of my most rewarding years with UNICEF were spent in Jordan, and much of that experience was shaped by the commitment and support of colleagues like Reem.
I was fortunate to spend a memorable afternoon with her in Dubai this past January. We shared a lovely time reminiscing about old days and catching up on our lives.
May her family find comfort during this time of loss, and may our cherished memories of Reem continue to inspire us. She will be deeply missed.
Misrak Elias
So sad to hear about the passing of Reem. I used to know her from my days in the Gulf. She was very helpful during my visits to Regional Office in Amman.
ReplyDeleteMay God rest her soul in eternal peace.
So sad to hear about the passing of Reem. I used to know her from my days in the Gulf. She was very helpful during my visits to Regional Office in Amman.
ReplyDeleteMay God rest her soul in eternal peace.
May you rest in peace dear Reem. You made the world a better place,
ReplyDeleteI met Reem in 1990 when she was a member of the MENARO operations team and I was a newly recruited operations young staff member in the tiny UNICEF Baghdad Office. With Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 and the closing of the airspace, Jordan became the only point of access to the outside world for Iraq and for us at UNICEF Iraq. What followed were sanctions, war, evacuation of international staff to Amman, multiple high level assessment missions and then a full full-fledged humanitarian operation with numerous suboffices and hundreds of staff.
ReplyDeleteThe operations requirements were complex and immense, travel, transport, fuel, satellite communications, cross border logistics, an endless list. We relied fully on the support of MENARO. They were our lifeline.
Reem was our operations focal point, a voice of calm in the chaos, getting things done with immense efficiency, available at all times of day and night to connect, coordinate and trouble shoot always with a smile and lighthearted spirit. Nothing was difficult or impossible. The stories are many, but the main hero of this story is Reem, a true dedicated professional that went above and beyond to help us in UNICEF Iraq deliver for children. What I witnessed was a highly respected colleague with a huge heart that motivated every team member, vendor, contractor to get things done.
On a personal level, we became friends and in typical Reem fashion, she and her wonderful parents adopted me and my whole family, making sure that family members abroad knew that we were alive during the war when Iraq’s communication systems were bombed, she helped me plan my wedding in Amman and hosted me to get ready at her family home on my wedding day, an incredible gesture of love and hospitality. What ensued was a lifelong friendship of 36 years across oceans with many great memories that I will hold dearly to heart.
Reem called me last Friday, two days before her sudden passing. She wanted me to know that a mutual Iraqi colleague and friend Hatem George had passed away and asked me to share the news with those who knew him. Until the end she was thinking of others and trying to help others. The world will miss you my dear friend but your impact on the lives of children and the lives of your friends will live with us forever.
Hey Hiba - what a touching recollection. I hope you are well - life after UNICEF? Take care.
DeleteIt is with deep sadness I learned of the passing of Reem Najjar who I got to know when I was RD in UNICEF MENA and she was head of the Staff Association.
ReplyDeleteReem was a force of nature - passionate, selfless and always determined to set things straight for the good of UNICEF and staff.
I also admired her soft and generous side. At the end of the most determined discussion on staff issues she invariably concluded with sweets from her bag, with laughter and a hug. Always a good hearted colleague she will be sorely missed.
Maria Calivis
Very sad to hear this news! May her soul rest in eternal peace. Our condolences and sympathies to the bereaved family and friends. We worked very closely in Jordan during our assignement there from 1994 to 1998. She was a pillar of UNICEF's country and regional offices in Amman. She was a go getter - getting done whatever was needed for UNICEF's success there. Bijaya and Gabriele Mallapaty
ReplyDeleteMay you rest in peace, dear Reem! I have fond memories of many years of collaboration in MENARO and the Jordan office. A solid, reliable and caring colleague. And thanks to Mary for sharing.
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