Statement from Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees
GENEVA – As brutal cuts to global humanitarian funding threaten millions, the consequences for people forced to flee are immediate and devastating.
- Refugee women and girls at extreme risk of rape and other abuse are already losing access to protection services that kept them safe.
- Children are being left without teachers or schools, making them more vulnerable to child labour, trafficking, or early marriage.
- Refugee communities will have less shelter, water and food.
Most refugees remain in regions close to their home country. Reducing aid does not deter displacement, but will make the world less safe, driving more desperate people to become refugees or keep moving onwards.
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, has sought innovative and efficient ways to deliver its mission, making the most of every donation for those fleeing danger. Over 90 per cent of our staff are on the front lines, delivering essential assistance for affected communities.
Last year alone, together with our partners, we responded to 43 refugee emergencies worldwide. With less funding, fewer staff and a reduced UNHCR presence in countries hosting refugees, the equation is simple: lives will be lost.
This is not just a funding shortfall – it is a crisis of responsibility. The cost of inaction will be measured in suffering, instability and lost futures.
Our dedication to protect people forced to flee remains unwavering. With continued support, we can identify and assist the most vulnerable, rapidly deploy when new emergencies hit, help stabilize fragile regions and facilitate the safe return home of refugees.
We appeal to member States to honour their commitments to displaced people. Now is the time for solidarity, not retreat.
End of the declaration from Filippo Grandi.
What this means for Switzerland and how you can help
Switzerland has a long-standing humanitarian tradition. Swiss solidarity – through public institutions and private donors alike – has consistently supported those forced to flee conflict and persecution.
Now is the time to continue this tradition. Solidarity is more vital than ever.
At a time when millions are being forced to flee, many humanitarian aid programmes have already been impacted by funding cuts. However, UNHCR remains on the ground, delivering life-saving assistance – but only with your help. We will not give up on the millions of people in need.
Behind your support and our action are women and men that could simply not survive without our collaborative commitment.
Let us work together to turn this humanitarian funding crisis into an opportunity to strengthen our position as a major player in international solidarity.
Making a donation to UNHCR today means working for the dignity of all, and affirming that for us Swiss, this solidarity will always take precedence over indifference.