Selma Haddadi

Selma Malika Haddadi (born 1977) is an Algerian diplomat who has served as Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission since 15 February 2025. She succeeded Monique Nsanzabaganwa in the position.

Early life and education

Haddadi studied law and was sworn in as a lawyer at the Algiers Bar in 2002.

She holds a master's degree in private law from the University of Nantes and a master's degree in public and private international law from the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis.

From 2015 to 2019, Ambassador Haddadi served as Minister Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Algeria in Ethiopia and to the African Union. She was Algeria's first ambassador accredited to South Sudan following the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

In 2024, Haddadi became Algeria's ambassador to Ethiopia and permanent representative to the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.

In April 2026, Ambassador Haddadi led the African Union delegation to the World Bank Group Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C.

Public positions and writings

Haddadi has spoken on issues related to African multilateralism and representation in international institutions.

In 2026, she co-authored with economist Carlos Lopes an opinion article in Project Syndicate titled Cartographic Justice for Africa.

The article discussed the effects of historical map projections on representations of Africa in educational and public materials. The publication was associated with broader discussions referred to as "Correct the Map", concerning cartographic representations of the African continent.