UN Refugee Agency estimates 2.5 million people need resettlement
This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Shabia Mantoo – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at today’s press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. GENEVA – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, estimates that 2.5 million refugees worldwide will...
UNHCR calls for de-escalation as Israel-Iran strikes create humanitarian fears
GENEVA – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is joining the UN Secretary-General and other leaders in appealing for an urgent de-escalation in the dangerously spiralling conflict between Israel and Iran. The intensity of the attacks is already triggering population...
High Commissioner Filippo Grandi’s message on World Refugee Day 2025
Today is World Refugee Day – a day to honour the courage and resilience of millions of people around the globe forced to flee war, violence and persecution. But it is also a moment to sound an alarm on their behalf. Record numbers of men, women and children – over 122...
Iconic Canadian landmarks to light up blue for World Refugee Day
OTTAWA – On June 19 and 20, iconic landmarks across Canada, including Niagara Falls, the CN Tower, and BC Place, will light up blue to mark World Refugee Day. Blue is the official colour of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Observed globally each year on June 20, World...
Ipsos’ global survey shows public support holding steady for refugees despite global fragility
Joint UNHCR-Ipsos press release GENEVA – Global public support for refugees’ rights to seek safety continues to hold steady despite current geopolitical fragilities and significant cuts in humanitarian aid, according to a new Ipsos survey released today to mark World...
UNHCR steadfast in refugee protection as it completes review of operations, structures and staffing
GENEVA – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, announced today the completion of a review of its activities, expenditure, staffing and structures, following a significant decline in humanitarian funding compared to 2024. The agency warned earlier this year that global aid...
One year kick off until the FIFA World Cup: share your story and celebrate the global game
OTTAWA – It’s one year until Canada co-hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While it seems far away, we’re excited to celebrate a game that’s truly global. In refugee settlements across the world, it’s common to see kids kicking a ball around or debating their...
With Canada set to host G7, UNHCR highlights urgent need for refugee solutions
OTTAWA/GENEVA – As Canada prepares to host world leaders, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, warns that the number of people displaced by war, violence and persecution worldwide is untenably high, particularly as humanitarian funding dries up. According to UNHCR’s annual...