Dr Zeinab Hijazi is a clinical psychologist and the Global Mental Health Lead at UNICEF. With over 18 years of experience, she has been instrumental in supporting mental health and psychosocial programs worldwide. In her current role, she oversees initiatives across UNICEF's seven regions of operation, providing program guidance and technical support across various sectors and divisions to enhance UNICEF's multi-sectoral approach to mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) for children and families in both humanitarian and development settings.
Her work encompasses policy development, data analysis, research, innovations, and advocacy at UNICEF headquarters. She plays a key role in coordinating efforts across health, education, and child protection sectors, aiding UNICEF country teams and partners in designing and implementing locally relevant, comprehensive, and sustainable MHPSS strategies.