Ogata was a pioneer in highlighting the imperative of women's involvement in solutions.

緒方さん死去、グテレス国連事務総長「難民支援の基準つくった」 The 


UN chief says he is deeply saddened by Ogata's death, calling her a humanitarian and role model for people across the world -- "Sadako Ogata set the standard for helping refugees: principled, compassionate, effective.

She was fearless in her advocacy for people, humanitarian action and political solutions." He added that Ogata was the first woman to serve as High Commissioner for Refugees, and "was a pioneer in highlighting not only the impact of violence on women but the imperative of women's involvement in solutions. Her contributions continued long after her service as High Commissioner, in particular in articulating the concept of human security."

 The statement also says Guterres is "grateful to have known Sadako Ogata as both colleague and friend." He offers "condolences to her family, to the people and Government of Japan, and to her many admirers around the world."