UNHCR concerned at new measures impacting rescue at sea in the Central Mediterranean
This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Charlie Yaxley – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at today’s press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is concerned about last night’s decision by the Italian...
Birth certificates signal brighter future for stateless children in Kenya
Government move to issue birth certificates to 600 children from Shona community hailed as an important protection measure and first step towards ending statelessness for the group. By Rose Ogola in Nairobi, Kenya Emma Muguni smiles through her tears as she holds her...
Emergency monsoon training saves Rohingya refugee lives
After receiving lifeguard instruction, Rohingya volunteers in Bangladesh rescue drowning teenager from reservoir. By Caroline Gluck and Iffath Yeasmine in Nayapara refugee camp, Bangladesh As a group of boisterous children played in the rising waters of a reservoir in...
Mo Amer brings humour and heart to refugee experience in Netflix stand-up special
By Lauren La Rose in Toronto, Canada Long before he was touring the world, starring in his Netflix special “The Vagabond, and counting superstars like Will Smith among his famous fans, Mo Amer first honed his stand-up skills on an unlikely stage: his high school...
Forging a friendship through art
After fleeing his home for Rwanda, Burundian artist Mike has made a friend for life. By Catherine Wachiaya in Kigali, Rwanda Mike Katihabuga sits perfectly still on a wooden stool. His only movement is from his right arm, deftly swinging a paintbrush over a piece of...
Iran health-care program a lifesaver for refugees in need of medical care
The Islamic Republic is one of only a few countries to provide comprehensive medical insurance for refugees on the same basis as its own citizens. By Leah Cowan in Tehran, Iran Despite being partially blind since birth, Ali Hashemi works as a garbage collector in...
After decades in Thailand, Myanmar refugees head home
Around 300 refugees are returning to south-east Myanmar, among them a family of four generations. By Jennifer Harrison in Mae La Temporary Shelter, Thailand Great-grandparents Pree and Dee Noe are looking forward to returning to their homeland after three decades in...
El Salvador joins regional effort to address forced displacement in Central America
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, welcomes El Salvador’s decision to join a regional initiative that aims to better address forced displacement in and from Central America, and to help those affected by it. By joining the initiative, known in the region by its Spanish...