Only Fatih Birol from Turkey included in Time's 100 most influential people list

International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director Fatih Birol has been included for the second time in Time magazine's annual "100 most influential people" list, which garners significant global attention. In this year's list, Birol was featured in the "leaders" category alongside artists, business representatives, innovators, icons, and other world leaders.

A statement from the IEA emphasized that Fatih Birol's inclusion in the list for the second time since 2021 serves as a testament to his international influence in the energy sector. The fact that Birol is the only individual from Turkey to appear on the list was highlighted as a significant achievement.

The list, which includes various figures from government, business, culture, and sports around the world, is noted for highlighting innovative and successful individuals who have made a global impact.

It was noted that Birol, who had previously succeeded in making the list, is one of the few select executives to have been honored with this title twice in the last 20 years.

In his assessment, IEA Executive Director Birol pointed out that although the IEA is a small-scale organization, it undertakes important tasks on behalf of countries regarding energy security, access, and sustainability, stating: "However, I believe that my inclusion in this Time list reflects the great value of the work we do as the IEA to help countries achieve their goals of increasing energy security, accessibility, and sustainability, especially in challenging times like the ones we are in."

Emphasizing that the dedicated and hardworking team at the IEA is behind this success, Birol said, "We are a data-driven organization; we cover all fuels and all technologies, from oil to natural gas, from grids to critical minerals, and we are committed to leading the global energy transition for the benefit of humanity."

Jason Bordoff, Director of the Center on Global Energy Policy, who provided an assessment for Time magazine, stated that he has known Birol as a colleague and mentor for nearly 20 years, adding: "At a time when energy has returned to center stage, the world is fortunate to have someone like him at the helm of the IEA. Fatih Birol has worked to keep countries aligned even as the world has become increasingly fragmented. Energy sits at the intersection of prosperity, security, and sustainability. Navigating these competing needs requires trusted voices, leadership, and the ability to build cooperation amidst geopolitical tensions. I have seen firsthand how indispensable Birol's steady leadership is."