Oxford Union elects first Palestinian president

LONDON: Arwa Hanin Elrayess, a Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) student at the University of Oxford, has been elected President of the Oxford Union for the Trinity Term 2026, the student-run newspaper Cherwell reported.

The term will run from April to June next year.

Arwa secured 757 votes, defeating her closest rival, Liza Barkova, by a margin of 155 votes in what was described as a highly competitive race.

Her father, Mohamed Elrayess, celebrated the historic win on LinkedIn, noting that she is the first Arab woman — and the first Palestinian and Algerian — to be elected to the prestigious position.

The Oxford Union, widely recognised as one of the world’s most influential student debating societies, has hosted some of the biggest political, academic and cultural figures. Its recent proceedings made headlines after an Indian delegation abruptly withdrew from a scheduled India–Pakistan debate, resulting in a walkover victory for the Pakistani side.

According to The Oxford Student, Arwa ran on a reformist platform, pledging to separate the Union’s internal politics from the debates it organises. She argued that governance controversies within the Union have “overshadowed the very debates that define [the Union].”

Her opponent, Barkova, also called for institutional repair, pointing to recent issues including high-profile speakers pulling out of events.

Speaking to Cherwell, Arwa said: “The Union is an incredibly special place, facing very difficult times. I think we need a fresh start with more transparent governance, financial responsibility, and to affirm our position as the last bastion of free speech.”