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UN: 75 Years Later, Promise to Refugees Remains Unfulfilled
28 Jul
Summary
- UNHCR marks 75 years of the 1951 Refugee Convention.
- Global leaders and activists signed 'The Promise' initiative.
- Over 41 million people are currently forcibly displaced worldwide.
The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is commemorating the 75th anniversary of the landmark 1951 Refugee Convention. This critical convention, established after World War II, guarantees the right for individuals to seek safety from persecution, regardless of their origin.
To honor this milestone, the UNHCR has initiated 'The Promise,' a public statement of solidarity. This campaign has garnered support from a diverse group of global figures, including Nobel laureates, artists, athletes, and refugee leaders. Notable signatories include Malala Yousafzai and Angelina Jolie.
High Commissioner Barham Salih underscored the convention's lifesaving impact over decades and stressed the ongoing global responsibility to protect those forced to flee. As of 2026, more than 41 million individuals worldwide remain forcibly displaced.
Salih highlighted that the convention also necessitates proactive solutions, emphasizing collaborative efforts from the early stages of displacement. This includes supporting host countries, enhancing refugee opportunities, and fostering conditions for voluntary return and other sustainable solutions.
