Closing remarks by the High Commissioner at the high-level event commemorating 75 years of the 1951 Refugee Convention
As Delivered By Barham Salih, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, in New York Excellencies, colleagues, friends, partners, This is truly an important discussion, and I thank you for the very important statements and commitments that have been made during this session....
Opening remarks by the High Commissioner at the high-level event commemorating 75 years of the 1951 Refugee Convention
As Delivered By Barham Salih, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, in New York Thank you so very much. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, colleagues, refugees, partners, and friends, welcome, and thank you for joining us at this event as we mark the 75th anniversary...
On World Refugee Day, the promise of safety and dignity must be renewed for a new generation
Statement by Barham Salih, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Tomorrow is World Refugee Day, a moment to recognize the courage and determination of nearly 42 million people uprooted from their countries by war, violence and persecution. Every day, refugees contribute...
UNHCR: ‘A reliable immigration pathway could unlock potential’
On June 3, 2026, UNHCR Canada was invited to appear before the House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM) as part of its study of Attracting and Empowering Global Talent to Strengthen Canada’s Economy. Michael Cassasola, UNHCR...
Statement by UNHCR Representative on deadly attack on Dnipro, destroying humanitarian aid in UNHCR’s warehouse
I strongly condemn last night’s Russian missile and drone attack on Dnipro, that claimed at least two civilian lives, injured more, and also hit a UNHCR-contracted warehouse, resulting in the destruction of significant amounts of humanitarian aid and shelter...
UNHCR: ‘Asylum is not merely an act of generosity, it’s an expression of courage’
On April 29, 2026, UNHCR Canada was invited to appear before the House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM) as part of its study of Canada’s immigration system. UNHCR Canada Representative Tracey Maulfair and Senior Legal Officer Azadeh...
UNHCR: ‘We hope Canada continues to be a champion for fast, fair, and efficient asylum’
On November 18, 2025, UNHCR Canada was invited to appear before the House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM) as part of its study of Bill C-12. Azadeh Tamjeedi, UNHCR Canada senior legal officer, presented on behalf of UNHCR. Video of...Statement by Dr. Barham Salih upon His Election as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
I am honoured to have been elected as the incoming United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. As a former refugee, I know first-hand how protection and opportunity can change the course of a life. That experience will inform a leadership approach grounded in...