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Jolie, who has been on more than 60 field
assignments during her 21 years with UNHCR, said she wanted to
keep working with refugees outside of the global body.
"I will continue to do everything in my power in the years to
come to support refugees and other displaced people," Jolie said
in a statement announcing her departure.
"After 20 years working within the U.N. system, I feel it is
time for me to work differently, engaging directly with refugees
and local organisations, and supporting their advocacy for
solutions," she said.
Jolie has been UNHCR special envoy since 2012.
This year, she visited Yemen and Ukraine to meet with displaced
people.
The U.N. high commissioner for refugees, Filippo Grandi thanked
her for her service, commitment and the difference she has made
for refugees and people forced to flee.
"After a long and successful time with UNHCR, I appreciate her
desire to shift her engagement and support her decision," Grandi
said. "I know the refugee cause will remain close to her heart,
and I am certain she will bring the same passion and attention
to a wider humanitarian portfolio."
The UNHCR estimates there have never before been so many people
forced from their homes by violence, conflict and persecution.
It estimates that more than 100 million people are currently
displaced around the world.
(Reporting by Emma Farge; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
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