The coronavirus outbreak is a test of our systems, values and humanity
By Michelle Bachelet and Filippo Grandi If ever we needed reminding that we live in an interconnected world, the novel coronavirus has brought that home. No country can tackle this alone, and no part of our societies can be disregarded if we are to effectively rise to...
Nine years of conflict weigh heavily on Syrian refugee girl
Her family’s dire financial straits have led to 11-year-old Naamat taking on many of the household duties, but her resilient spirit has enabled her to excel at school. By Rima Cherri in Amman, Jordan Each weekday morning after her mother has left for work, Naamat...
Two years of political and social crisis in Nicaragua force more than 100,000 to flee
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. Nearly two years after Nicaragua was plunged into a serious political and social...
UNHCR: After 9 years of tragedy, resilience and solidarity, the world must not forget displaced Syrians
Geneva, 9 March – As the Syrian crisis enters its tenth year, the Syrian people continue to experience acute tragedy. Every second Syrian man, woman and child has been forcibly displaced since the start of the conflict in March 2011 – often, more than once. Today,...
UN Refugee Agency steps up COVID-19 preparedness, prevention and response measures
Geneva, 10 March 2020 – The world’s response to the COVID-19 crisis must encompass and focus on all, including those forced to flee their homes. The elderly among the world’s forcibly displaced population are particularly vulnerable, warned today UNHCR, the UN Refugee...
UNHCR, partners seek US$621 million to support DRC refugees and hosting communities
This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at today’s press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and its partners are urgently appealing for US$621...
Isabel Allende brings refugee story to life in new novel
The bestselling Chilean writer was once a refugee herself. Concern for the displaced is at the heart of her latest novel. By Coco Campbell in London With 70 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, many people see refugees as statistics. But not Isabel Allende....
Sudanese provides safe haven to fellow refugees in Libya
Having arrived in Tripoli 17 years ago, Osman has provided shelter and support to more than 200 refugees as part of UNHCR scheme to assist the most vulnerable. By Tarik Argaz in Tripoli, Libya In 2003, Osman fled civil war in Darfur after witnessing armed men kill...