Arwa Hanin Elrayess, a student of philosophy, politics and economics, has been elected president of the Oxford Union for the Trinity term of 2026, which will run from April to June, according to the university’s student newspaper.
Her father, Mohamed Elrayess, celebrated the achievement on LinkedIn, noting that she is the first Arab woman - and the first Palestinian and Algerian - to hold the position. Elrayess secured 757 votes, winning by a margin of 155 over her closest rival, Liza Barkova.
The Oxford Union, one of the world’s most prestigious student-led debating societies, frequently hosts high-profile discussions on global affairs. It recently made headlines when an Indian delegation withdrew at the last minute during a debate on India-Pakistan relations, resulting in a default victory for the Pakistani side.
Elrayess campaigned on the promise of keeping the Union’s internal politics separate from the debates it organises. She said governance controversies during the current term had “overshadowed the very debates that define the Union.” Barkova, her opponent, also emphasised the need to restore the Union’s credibility, noting recurring issues with speakers withdrawing.
Speaking to Cherwell, Elrayess said, “The Union is an incredibly special place facing very difficult times. We need a fresh start with more transparent governance, financial responsibility, and to reaffirm our standing as the last bastion of free speech.”
Beyond her Union involvement, Elrayess contributed to the documentary Heart of a Protest, which offered an inside look at pro-Palestine demonstrations in the UK.
The Oxford Union has recently seen turbulent internal politics, with former presidents George Abaraonye and Moosa Harraj subjected to no-confidence votes. Pakistan continues to have a presence in the Union’s leadership, with Aitchison College alumnus Shahmir Aziz serving on the Secretary’s Committee.
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