UNHCR Chief Calls for Solutions to Address Forced Displacement
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, has called for more comprehensive solutions to address forced displacement during his final address to the General Assembly. His remarks highlighted both progress and ongoing challenges in the global refugee crisis.
Grandi noted that for the first time in nearly a decade, the number of refugees and individuals fleeing war, violence, and persecution has decreased—from 123 million at the end of 2024 to approximately 117 million today. However, he emphasized that this reduction should not be interpreted as a sign that the world is becoming safer. Instead, he pointed to ongoing conflicts in regions such as Sudan, Gaza, Ukraine, and Myanmar as evidence of continued instability.
Voluntary Returns: A Key Factor in the Decline
The decline in displacement numbers has largely been driven by returns to places of origin, particularly from Syria and Afghanistan. Most of these returns have been voluntary, despite the fragile conditions in these regions. Grandi stressed that the voluntary nature of returns is an important distinction, as statistics may not always reflect the full complexity of the situation.
He explained that some returns were not entirely voluntary, which complicates the interpretation of displacement figures. The return of displaced Syrians, for example, illustrates the dynamic of voluntariness. Over a million refugees have returned since the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024, while around two million people within Syria have also returned to their communities of origin.
Supporting Syria: A Critical Need
Grandi emphasized the urgent need for greater support for Syria, where UNHCR teams are actively providing cash assistance, shelter rehabilitation, documentation, and other essential services. He called on the international community, especially donors in the Gulf region, Europe, and international financial institutions, to increase their support for rebuilding infrastructure, restoring services, reforming the security sector, and restarting the economy.
Forced Returns to Afghanistan
The situation for Afghans, particularly those forced to return from Iran and Pakistan, has also contributed to the decline in displacement numbers. These countries have hosted Afghan refugees for decades, offering them access to services similar to those available to nationals. Generations of Afghan refugees, especially women, have been educated in local schools.
However, recent waves of forced returns have denied many Afghan refugees the protection they need. Grandi warned that returning to Afghanistan exposes individuals to an environment marked by widespread human rights violations and discrimination, particularly against women.
Protection and Opportunities: A Complex Challenge
Grandi described forced displacement as a complex phenomenon, noting that people may flee a country at the same time as others return to it—this is evident in both Sudan and South Sudan. He argued that the response to displacement is equally complex and stressed that the solution does not lie in restrictions, barriers, or pushbacks.
Instead, he proposed focusing on entire displacement routes to identify measures that provide protection and opportunities for people on the move and their hosts. He urged early intervention to ensure that these protections are in place before individuals cross multiple borders.
Financial Shortfall: A Major Concern
As Grandi prepares to leave UNHCR in the coming weeks after a decade of service, he addressed the impact of drastic reductions in financing this year. The agency faces a $1.3 billion shortfall and expects to receive less than $4 billion this year, out of a total budget of $10.6 billion.
He called on donors to help bridge this gap and make early, flexible pledges for 2026. This financial support is crucial for ensuring that the humanitarian sector can continue its vital work in protecting and supporting displaced populations.