4th Meeting, 76th Session of UNHCR Executive Committee Meetings & Events Date: 7 October 2025 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/asset/k14/k149dfkpod Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [0:05]: Excellencies, distinguished delegates, we shall now resume consideration of agenda item 3, the general debate. I would like to remind delegations that there is a long list of speakers ahead of us, and I urge all speakers to respect their allotted speaking time of five minutes. In continuation of the speakers list, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iceland. Mr. Jonas, you have the floor. Iceland [0:49]: Mr. Chairman, High Commissioner, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Iceland aligns itself with the statement of Denmark delivered yesterday on behalf of like-minded states. It is an honor to address the Executive Committee today on behalf of Iceland. At the end of last year, the number of forcibly displaced and stateless persons requiring protection was over 123 million. 49 million of those were children. This continued rise in displacement challenges the system's capacity to respond and, more importantly, threatens the dignity and safety of millions of people globally. At the same time, humanitarian workers are facing unprecedented levels of danger. Last year was the deadliest for humanitarians, and 2025 is already on track to surpass all previous death tolls. At times like these, it is our collective duty to ensure that international law and international humanitarian law are respected and all parties to conflict are held accountable. Violations must be addressed and unimpeded humanitarian access must be ensured. As the foundations of the multilateral system are tested, solidarity is vital. Iceland recognizes the tireless work of UNHCR, its people and partners in providing protection, assistance and durable solutions under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. Efficient response not only requires political resolve, but also reliable, flexible and predictable financial support. In this regard, Iceland continues to provide quality funding to UNHCR, ensuring much needed operational flexibility. Our current multiyear framework agreement is designed to provide unearmarked resources to better enable swift and strategic responses to evolving crises. Such funding strengthens surge capacity, addresses underfunded operations, and sustains responses in protracted situations. Mr. Chairman, Displacement is not experienced equally. Women and girls, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI+ persons, ethnic minorities, and the stateless often face additional risks. We encourage the UNHCR to prioritize protection from sexual and gender-based violence, even as it has to do more with less. Harmful gender norms and the shrinking of civil spaces for women and girls restrict forcibly displaced women's meaningful access and participation to leadership, economic and educational opportunities. An intersectional approach to protection is essential. Sustainable responses should be at the heart of our efforts. Refugees must be included in education, ensured access to health services, employment, social protection and banking systems so they can rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. Like the High Commissioner said in his opening statement, with better inclusion, refugees can become contributors. We must also maintain momentum towards ending statelessness, which remains both an achievable and urgent goal. Displacement should not be a permanent condition for anyone, let alone millions of people. Shared responsibility is the cornerstone of the multilateral system. We call on member states to strengthen their cooperation with UNHCR, and to be strong advocates for protection, accountability, gender equality, and inclusion. In doing so, we can reaffirm that the rights and dignity of displaced persons are not negotiable, but fundamental. In closing, Mr. Chairman, allow me to reiterate the commitment of Iceland to support the life-saving mandate of the UNHCR, and we welcome its active engagement in the UNHCR process. Finally, I would like to, on behalf of Iceland, to thank the High Commissioner for his leadership these past 10 years. Your dedication remains unmatched, and we deeply appreciate your hard work for those most in need. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [4:49]: I thank the distinguished representative of Iceland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Hungary, Excellency Ambassador Avassi. Hungary · Ambassador [5:04]: Thank you, Chair. High Commissioner, dear colleagues, unfortunately, we live in an era marked by multiple dangers. Wars and armed conflicts are increasing, terrorism is spreading, and extreme ideologies are gaining ground. As a result, more and more people are forced to flee their homes, Hungary notes with deep concern UNHCR's projection that 136 million people will be forcibly displaced or stateless by 2026. As we face numerous complex humanitarian situations, UNHCR's focus on its core mandate is critical. In response to these developments, Hungary considers two aspects to be of paramount importance: First, strengthening UNHCR's operational capacity is essential to ensure adequate protection and assistance for refugees. Second, respect for international law must be reinforced to prevent the outbreak of further massive illegal migratory waves and avoid risking the security and stability of countries. Hungary is ready to take its fair share of responsibility in both respects. To achieve these objectives, it is important to recognize the long-standing presence and role of UNHCR in Hungary. UNHCR has been operational in Hungary for 36 years. The regional representation for Central Europe and the Global Service Center together has 640 employees. The Hungarian government remains committed to providing all necessary conditions for their successful operation. A key element of understanding the complex challenges is to make a clear distinction between refugees and illegal migrants. Hungary emphasizes that this difference enshrined in international law must be strictly upheld. Misuse of these terms and the refugee status has become an increasingly concerning phenomenon. International law clearly expresses those forced to leave their homes are entitled to remain temporarily in the first safe country. It does not grant the right to move on the second, third or tenth safe country. Crossing borders between safe countries without authorization cannot be regarded as a human right issue. It is particularly relevant for Hungary to distinguish the terms as we are under double migratory pressure. To address these challenges, our country has invested over 2 billion euros in recent years. Living in close proximity to the war in Ukraine as a neighboring country, Hungary has welcomed more than 1.4 million beneficiaries of international protection over the past years, providing equal access to education, healthcare, and essential services. This constitutes the largest humanitarian operation in Hungary's history, demonstrating our commitment to supporting the refugees in need coming from Ukraine. At the same time, Hungary must ensure the security of its borders. We are ready to continue protecting our southern border, which is also the external border of the European Union, which faces persistent challenges as it is one of the busiest migratory routes of the continent. Over the past 10 years, we have prevented the illegal entry of one million migrants. Those attempting to cross our borders have often shown no respect for our laws and in some cases have attacked police and border guards, representing the clear violation of our sovereignty. Under this double pressure, Hungary remains committed to protecting its borders and exercising its sovereign right to decide to whom to admit into its territory. Despite these security challenges, Hungary continues to provide all necessary assistance to refugees from Ukraine as long as is required. We support all international initiatives to achieving peace in Ukraine, as peace is the only way to save lives, including those of Hungarians living in Ukraine. We reiterate UNHCR's call for a functioning return system, which is needed to prevent the abuse of the international protection regime. We must make it clear that third countries are obliged to readmit their own returnees. Finally, Hungary does not underestimate the difficulty of the restructuring exercise that UNHCR has undertaken in the recent months. We welcome High Commissioner Grandi's efforts to adjust operation, staffing and programming, as well as UNHCR's engagement in the UNHCR and humanitarian reset processes. We trust that these reforms will reinforce UNHCR's ability to deliver on its core mandate, and Hungary reaffirms its commitment to support the continued successful operation of the Budapest offices throughout this process. I thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [11:11]: I thank Excellency the Ambassador of Hungary. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Philippines, His Excellency Ambassador Carlos Soreta. You have the floor, sir. Philippines · Ambassador [11:25]: Thank you very much, Ambassador Dacka. Always a pleasure to be working under your leadership. Thank you, sir. We thank the High Commissioner for his statement and his very factual and meaningful responses in the past two days, and we thank him for his tireless and dedicated service and leadership through an era of unprecedented displacement and complexity. Mr. Chair, the Philippines shares the deep concern over the erosion of trust in multilateralism. To be clear, it is not our agreed maritime precepts that are in crisis. We have our basic set, the conventions, GCR, international maritime law. What is in crisis is the need for our collective will to uphold and comply with them. Protection must remain at the heart of our system, with innovation and solidarity as our tools. The Philippines has sought to embody this conviction through concrete action. Nationally, we have strengthened access to health, education, and legal identity for refugees and stateless persons, including persons at risk of statelessness, while advancing naturalization and birth registration as possible durable solutions. We have a complementary pathways program called Pathways Pilipinas, which provides tertiary education opportunities to refugees, including from the Rohingya community. Education is not only protection, it is empowerment. It is government-led with private sector sponsorship. We are also working with Canada in sharing best practices and finding ways to improve this. We are exploring legislation specific to refugees and statelessness protection. We continue to deliver on our Global Refugee Forum pledges and pursued asylum system modernization, inclusion in national services, and expanded pathways for third country solutions. As this year's Vice Chair of the Global Alliance to End Statelessness Advisory Committee, we affirm that statelessness must remain on the agenda. As the multilateral system evolves, clarity is needed on how this issue will be carried forward. As the only country in Southeast Asia to have acceded to both the 1954 Statelessness Convention and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness, the Philippines stands ready to advance this discussion at the regional level. We look forward to the Global Refugee Forum progress review in December For it will be a test of our resolve to renew solidarity, to measure progress, and to prove that even in difficult times, we can still restore futures. The Philippines actively supports UNHCR's mandate. Yet we also underline the UNHCR must be fit for purpose. Resources must serve primarily the needs of the displaced, not absorbed disproportionately by institutional maintenance and by mechanisms, negotiations and processes that may be traditional but are redundant. Efficiency and accountability are essential for sustaining the trust of both donors and displaced persons alike. And it is with this thought that we fully support the budget and hope for its adoption. Outside the UNHCR, we are taking actions within the maritime sphere that also hope to address displacement. We pushed for international maritime law compliance when we recently hosted the regional Asia-Pacific conference on IHL in Manila. And as president of the 13th meeting of state parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, we worked on victim assistance, clearance, compliance, and universality. We firmly believe that to truly address displacement, we must also exert every effort to preserve peace and resolve conflict. It is for this reason that we seek a non-permanent seat in the Security Council for 2027-2028. Mr. Chair, even in the face of the erosion of multilateralism, the true measure of our Yamatan cooperation is in the actual lives that we transform. To do this, we must strive for peace, ensure that international protection remains rooted in compliance and anchored in dignity, partnership, and hope. Thank you, Mr. Chair. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [16:04]: I thank Excellency Ambassador of the Philippines. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Burkina Faso. Her Excellency, Ambassador Sabine Bakio-Noubkanzi. You have the floor, madam. Burkina Faso · Ambassador [16:25]: Thank you very much for having given me the floor, sir. It's a real pleasure to see you chairing our meeting. At the outset, I should very much like to extend to you friendly greetings from the government and the courageous people of Burkina Faso, who are deeply attached to the common values of solidarity and equity in a world that is ravaged by multidimensional crises, with at their heart forced displacements of populations. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Cote d'Ivoire on behalf of the African Group. I should like to extend my warm congratulations to the High Commissioner, Mr. Filippo Grandi, for the progress achieved by our shared organization during his mandate, which is coming to a close. High Commissioner, as you stated in your opening remarks, in an international environment that is marked into area by the crisis of multilateralism, a lack of trust in international organizations, and the erosion of norms and values governing relations between international law rights holders, it is not easy, it is no easy task to hold the fate of an institution like HCR in your hands. On this institution depend the lives of millions of people affected by these crises. Despite this difficult context, your mission to steer and coordinate international action for protection and for seeking sustainable solutions for refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons, and internally displaced persons is deeply appreciated. Third, the ongoing complex challenges linked to forced displacement and the increasingly glaring lack of solidarity towards the countries hosting these vulnerable populations leads us to question the capacity of the international community to prevent or, where it cannot, to resolve conflicts and disasters, which are the main causes thereof. As a State Party to the international conventions governing persons forcibly displaced, Burkina Faso attaches importance to caring for all individuals seeking international protection. The commitments shouldered by my country at the Global Forum for Refugees in 2023, as well as their gradual implementation, is a perfect illustration of this. In terms of specific achievements, we could mention, inter alia, the issuance of passports for refugees that are valid for five years, the amendment of the legal framework relating to asylum, and the adoption of the law incorporating the compiler convention into domestic law, improved access to civil status records and ID documents for refugees and IDPs, the adoption of the law on the code of persons and the family, where one chapter is entirely focused on the status of statelessness, The amendment of the 27th of March 2024 of the tripartite accord from 2015, Burkina Faso, Mali, UNHCR, on the voluntary return of the Malian refugees settled in Burkina Faso in order to take account of the situation of Burkinabe refugees in Mali. Some of these innovative approaches constitute notable success when it comes to protection. We should be made more widespread by way of best practices. These measures that my country has adopted seek to ensure that refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons, and IDPs have the protection that they have the right to without hiding the legitimate needs of the host communities. Similarly, fully in line with the Lome Declaration of July 2025, Burkina Faso, like other countries in the West African sub-region, reiterates its commitment to bolstering regional cooperation as well as its humanitarian action to improve the security and protection of refugees in the face of ongoing security challenges. Seeking solutions to the phenomenon of enforced displacement requires that the entire international community undertake a comprehensive analysis. recovering the deep-rooted causes of this scourge, my country remains convinced that it is only through such an approach that we will be able to cut the evil off at the root and to come up with sustainable solutions that address the humanitarian needs and development needs in a comprehensive manner. It is in this spirit that Burkina Faso and the brother countries of the Confederation of States of the Sahel are working tirelessly to comprehensively eradicate the terrorist hydra, which is the main cause of forced displacements in the subregion. So the results that Burkina Faso has seen are largely fruit of its cooperation with the United Nations system and, in particular, with UNHCR, the main partner of the country in terms of international protection. It is therefore my pleasure to express my sincere gratitude to the UNHCR representation in Burkina Faso. I remain convinced that it is in a spirit of solidarity and burden and responsibility sharing that we will be able to achieve optimum care and optimally address the issue of enforced displacement and therefore alleviate the suffering of innocent populations across the world. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [22:15]: I thank Excellency Ambassador of Burkina Faso. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Italy, His Excellency Ambassador Vincenzo Grassi. You have the floor, sir. Italy · Ambassador [22:30]: Thank you, Chair. Italy aligns itself with the EU statement and would like to add some remark in its national capacity. At the outset, allow me to express Italy's sincere gratitude to High Commissioner Filippo Grandi. For the past decade, you have led UNHCR with vision, courage, and dedication. Your ability to steer the agency through times of unprecedented challenges while never losing sight of its protection mandate is a lasting legacy. Let me also commend the staff and all humanitarian workers who provide protection and assistance on the ground, often at great personal risk. Mr. High Commissioner, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, the 1951 Geneva Convention and its 1967 Protocol represent a milestone in our partnership with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. We remain fully committed to the Convention principles, including the right to seek asylum and the principle of non-refoulement. We continue to place our full trust in the core mandate of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees as the cornerstone of the international refugee regime. Humanitarian needs have reached unprecedented levels. Conflicts and crises in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar, Afghanistan, the Sahel, Haiti, Venezuela and beyond continue to uproot millions, while violation of international humanitarian and human rights law in a context of growing impunity. Italy is particularly exposed to displacement dynamics. In 2024 and 25, my country has been the main point of arrival in Europe through the central Mediterranean route, with over 66,000 arrivals in 2024 and more than 49,000 already registered by late September this year. Against this backdrop, and as also highlighted during our fruitful bilateral discussion last week, Italy confirmed its commitment to a comprehensive approach on three pillars. One, addressing the root causes of forced displacement through development and stabilization; two, countering human trafficking, smuggling, and organized crime; three, promoting regular pathways for migration, which offer real alternatives to dangerous routes and strengthen protection for those in need. This vision inspires our engagement through the Rome Process on Development and Migration and the Mattei Plan for Africa. providing a platform for cooperation with countries of origin, transit, and destination, in line with the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, to which implementation Italy will actively contribute. In 2025, Italy announced cooperation with key partners to dismantle smuggling and trafficking networks, signing a new memorandum of understanding with Pakistan, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, and Ecuador, and advancing joint projects with North African countries, including Tunisia and Libya. Italy continues investing in regular pathways. Since 2015, humanitarian corridors have safely transferred around 700 refugees to Italy with civil society partners. We are also piloting labor mobility schemes with UNHCR and the private sector. Our Decreto Flussi for 2026-2028 will reserve the highest annual national quotas for refugee and stateless persons. These initiatives, together with voluntary return and reintegration projects, contribute to a comprehensive, holistic approach. We are equally determined to tackle statelessness, and this year we have joined the Global Alliance to End Statelessness. We are also proud to continue leading the Regional Development and Protection Programme for North Africa, launched in 2015 and co-chaired with EU DG Home. The programme has financed 73 projects across North Africa and the Sahel, with a total of 92.6 million euros to strengthen protection and to improve living conditions. Italy considers the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees' route-based approach a key tool to strengthen protection along major migratory routes and provide a real alternative to smugglers. For us, The central Mediterranean is a clear priority. We believe this approach should become a political priority, guiding coordinated action by States and partners to deliver effective and sustainable responses to mixed movements. We support UNHCR's alignment with UN's 18th Humanitarian Compact and the Humanitarian Reset, and commend its collaboration with IOM, ILO and other partners to advance protection, livelihoods and solutions, encouraging an even further increase in joint activities and programming. Italy is among the main donors to the agency, with projects ranging from direct humanitarian assistance and healthcare to voluntary return, documentation, and resilience of host communities. In 2025, Italy has already responded with more than $50 million to UNHCR's humanitarian activities. In addition, contributions from the private sector have reached $55 million in the last two years. We welcome the sustainable programming approach, promoting inclusion, self-reliance, and resilience for displaced people and host communities. Finally, we look ahead to the Global Refugee Forum progress review in December, where we will take stock of our progress and accelerate delivery of national and multi-stakeholder pledges. Italy reaffirms its steadfast support to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees' efforts to combat discrimination and promote inclusiveness. We will continue to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable and advocate for principled and inclusive humanitarian action. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [28:12]: I thank Excellency the Ambassador of Italy. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland, Excellency Ambassador Mr. Noel White. You have the floor, sir. Ireland · Ambassador [28:26]: Ambassador Dacke, thank you very much. High Commissioner, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Ireland, at the outset, I want to say, Ireland aligns itself with the statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of like-minded European states. High Commissioner, at the outset also, before saying anything else, we want once again to commend you and your opening statement and to thank you for your tireless work in this role since your appointment in 2016. Your personal commitment to those most in need across the globe is evident, and the continued dedication of UNHCR staff in displacement settings is a testament to your leadership and to your dedication. The level of appreciation in Ireland for your role was evident as well in the high level of political and media engagement during your recent visit to our country in July. Your leadership has been inspirational and we congratulate you on a job well done. You have set a very high bar. High Commissioner, your message is clear. The idea of multilateralism has itself come under attack, as have the norms and customs which traditionally underpin the crucial work of organisations like UNHCR. At a time of such blatant disregard for international humanitarian law, and with so much uncertainty and danger for humanitarian workers, we pay respect to the staff of UNHCR who work tirelessly in crises around the world, and we pay tribute to those who have tragically lost their lives whilst doing so. We recognize also in these times the acute and unprecedented financial challenges faced by UNHCR and the humanitarian system generally, and we very much regret and sympathize with those UNHCR staff, past and present, who have suffered enormous disruption to their professional and personal circumstances as a consequence of the reduction in donor support. Turning to UN80 and the humanitarian reset, High Commissioner, Ireland remains firmly committed to a strong rules-based multilateral system, but we acknowledge the clear need to reinvigorate multilateral architecture and to support UN reform efforts. These initiatives present an opportunity to deliver better and more efficiently. The result, the outcome, must be a multilateral system that is accountable, that eliminates duplication, that strengthens cooperation, and, crucially, that delivers on the ground for those most in need. We support you, the High Commissioner and UNHCR, in your contribution to these initiatives, and we acknowledge the challenge of doing so whilst also attempting to deal with these drastic funding cuts. Systemic change is necessary, but it must also be balanced across all three pillars of the system. Reform also cannot come at the cost of the UN's core values. Ireland will use its voice whenever and wherever possible to ensure that the normative work of the UN on central issues such as human rights, gender equality and climate action is protected and advanced in line with the SDGs. In line with this, we encourage UNHCR to continue to center the protection of women and girls in all operations and to emphasize the importance of and our commitment to climate action as a means towards protecting the most vulnerable. We reemphasize the need to ensure that the responses to protracted and forgotten crises, many of which you, High Commissioner, have highlighted in your opening remarks, remain supported. We would like to take this opportunity to reiterate Ireland's support for your invaluable work. We will continue to maintain our support, both financially and, just as importantly, in speaking out in support of collective action and humanitarian need. Ireland's support to UNHCR has grown in recent years, making UNHCR one of the largest recipients of humanitarian funding. We have prioritised the provision of flexible and predictable funding. Since 2023, Ireland's core funding has been provided under a multi-annual agreement. In addition to that core funding, Ireland has also provided humanitarian funding for UNHCR's response to specific crises, including activities in Jordan, Venezuela, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. And in recent weeks, we provided additional assistance to Lebanon and to the regional response to the Sudan crisis. What we as donors provide in the face of so many crises cannot compare with the constant assistance provided by host countries to those displaced and forced to flee. We reiterate our support to those host countries, and we recall our shared responsibility towards protecting refugees without discrimination. Recalling the success of the 2023 Global Refugee Forum, we must maintain support to both UNHCR and host communities through strengthening the sustainability of humanitarian responses. We remain committed to progressing the aims of the Global Compact on Refugees, and we look forward to participating in the Global Refugee Forum progress review in December. In conclusion, Chair, Ireland's participation with UNHCR has been central to our humanitarian response globally. Ireland will continue its strong commitment to UNHCR and to its critical work supporting refugees and internally displaced peoples globally. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [33:48]: I thank the Ambassador of Ireland, and I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Cameroon, His Excellency Ambassador Salomon Ehret. You have the floor. Cameroon · Ambassador [34:03]: Thank you. Chairman. Chairman, Cameroon fully aligns with the statement delivered by Cote d'Ivoire on behalf of the African Group. My delegation would like to extend to you, Mr. Chairman, Congratulations on the way you have stewarded our work, and I wish you every success in this session. Mr. High Commissioner, for me it is a great pleasure and an honour to take the floor today on behalf of the Republic of Cameroon and on behalf of the Foreign Minister, Mr. Mbella Mbella, on the occasion of this 76th session of the ExCom. As you rightly underline, Mr. High Commissioner, as well as the majority of previous speakers, multiple crises, be they security, climate or in particular budgetary, continue to provoke major upheavals at all levels. These upheavals affect the capacity of host countries to effectively manage the situation of refugees and IDPs. My country is profoundly concerned by the resurgence in forced displacement in a context where available resources are diminishing. This has a negative impact on mandate implementation and functioning of HCR, and host countries like my own continue to be affected significantly. The absence of predictable, sustainable support also erodes the resilience of refugees and of host communities. In that context, we stress the urgent need for decent, sustainable financing for HCR. In terms of solutions, especially the asylum system mentioned in your report, Commissioner, the legal, structural and operational frameworks have been revisited in my country to optimize our process for determining refugee status, guaranteeing all rights for asylum seekers. So we have continued to deliver since January 2025, several documents serving as birth certificates and 1,308 documents and receipts to be able to establish refugee cards as called for by existing national regulation. Since the 2024 reforms, Cameroon now has, in addition to the national ID card for nationals, several documents specific to international protection. The refugee card is specially designed for those benefiting from refugee status in our country. High Commissioner, in terms of reintegration of refugees, our country hosted in March 2025 a delegation of the Core Group for Priority Situations, whose goal is to increase the rate of refugees to be reintegrated into their home country and elsewhere. I take this opportunity to urge States here represented and who are part of the aforementioned group to build on this momentum. Cameroon reaffirms its commitment to pursuing our exchanges with states willing to host refugees settled in their territory with a view to fostering a more equitable distribution of the burden and to bolster the principle of solidarity and shared responsibility. In terms of the process of voluntary return of refugees, it's already been subject to two tripartite agreements with the sister Republic Nigeria and with Central African Republic under the watchful eye of HCR. High Commissioner, implementation of those agreements remains an ongoing concern of the government. Now with Nigeria, negotiations with a view to the return of 20,000 of their compatriots who established as a priority at Minawao camp, which he visited in 2022, and in the far north region are underway. Voluntary repatriation of Central African refugees is part of a fast-track process. Twenty-four convoys have left in the last year from Cameroon to the CAR, and repatriations continue. Intentions for return are growing, and the Government of Cameroon calls for greater outreach among target populations to reassure the more sceptical among them. On that basis, we are forced to note that Cameroon has spared no effort in terms of effectively managing more than the 500,000 refugees documented on its territory. To efficiently achieve that goal, we are bolstering our advocacy to leverage the principle of burden sharing. of responsibilities, as called for by the global compact that we are a party to. Finally, High Commissioner, Kahliloon, I congratulate you for your impressive leadership with which you have led this organization over the last decade, which, as we all know, has been one of the most difficult in the history of forced displacement, chiefly due to conflict and to climate disasters throughout the world. Your vision, your commitment, your approach, your field visits have left an indelible imprint. High Commissioner Cameron thanks you from the bottom of its heart for your personal commitment to the quest for solutions and meeting the challenges it's faced in recent times. Our highest authorities will remember you as an indefatigable defender of the humanitarian cause. I thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [39:29]: I thank the Ambassador of Cameroon. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Romania, His Excellency Ambassador Razvan Rusu. You have the floor. Romania [39:47]: Thank you, Chairman. Sadly, my ambassador was unable to participate due to his state of health for health reasons. Chair, High Commissioner, Ambassadors, dear colleagues, Romania aligns with the statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of a number of EU Member States. High Commissioner, we want to commend your unflinching commitment to displaced persons around the world. Your leadership has not only bolstered the effectiveness of HCR, but also embodies the values of solidarity and human dignity that we all share. We thank you sincerely and the whole HCR team for your meaningful, valuable work. Your mandate illustrates the importance of the UN reform process and the vision of UN after 80 years, making our multilateral action more effective, inclusive and united. Romania continues to implement its pledges made at the second Global Forum for Refugees, and it stands ready to report on results at the High Level Officials Meeting in December this year. Celebrating 80 years of UN and 70 years of its membership, Romania reaffirms its support to an effective multilateral system, the United Nations Charter and the international law. Romania supports the implementation of the Pact of the Future and of the UN80 initiative to make the UN more effective, efficient and responsive. Romania supports the central coordinating role of the United Nations regarding the humanitarian response to emergencies. Romania continues to process asylum applications align with the international standards, currently granting international protection to nearly 4,800 persons, including approximately 100 Ukrainian citizens. In addition, the emergency transit center in Timisoara remains a vital tool for urgent protection. Romania has stood in the front line from the very first day of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, guided by the solidarity and by our international and European obligations. By agreeing to adopting the EU temporary protection mechanism, Romania swiftly established the legislative framework to grant immediate protection to displaced persons from Ukraine. This framework ensures access from the moment of registration to essential services such as healthcare, education, housing, and the labor market. In August 2025, Romania hosted almost 193,000 beneficiaries of temporary protection, the vast majority of them being Ukrainian citizens fleeing the war. Mr. Chairman, our responsibility goes beyond protection. We are committed to integration. Refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection enjoy the same economic and social rights as Romanian citizens, including access to work, education, healthcare, and housing. We provide financial support, accommodation, language courses, cultural orientation, counseling, and professional guidance. In partnership with UNHCR, IOM, EU and the civil society, these efforts are reinforced by the EU-funded projects such as A New Home in Romania and Include UA, which provide sustainable housing and social inclusion solutions, particularly for vulnerable groups. Regional integration centres supported by mobile teams ensure that support reaches communities across the country. Romania's commitment goes beyond legislation. It is rooted in the belief that solidarity is the foundation of stability and peace in our region and in the world. We understand the challenges, ensuring dignified living conditions, supporting children's education, preventing vulnerabilities, and building pathways to independence. Yet we also know we are not alone in this endeavor. The partnership with UNHCR and all international European actors are partnerships with UNHCR, all international European actors are essential. And Romania remains ready to contribute actively to this collective response. In this endeavor, we continue to count on our excellent cooperation with the UNHCR representation in Romania, whose activity we value and commend. Mr. Chairman, looking ahead, our priorities are clear: maintaining temporary protection as long as needed, strengthening integration measures for those wishing to build a future in Romania, and ensuring that dignity and resilience remain at the heart of our collective action. Together, we can show that the international community provides not only protection, but also hope and real opportunities for the future. Thank you very much. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [44:39]: I thank the distinguished representative of Romania. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay. Uruguay [44:52]: Thank you very much, High Commissioner, Vice Chair. Uruguay reaffirms its unflinching commitment to international refugee law, in step with its historic tradition of being a land of asylum, protection and hospitality. Throughout time, our country has consolidated an identity rooted in protection of human rights and hosting those who have been forced to flee their countries of origin in the quest for security. Uruguay is no alien to the current complex realities nor the challenges highlighted by the High Commissioner and has had to face significant challenges when it comes to asylum and international protection. Nevertheless, far from weakening our determination, those challenges have reaffirmed our commitment and conviction for the search for lasting, human-focused solutions. Our country has therefore implemented innovative measures, such as the decree granting residency by roots and the application for prima facie recognition of refugee status. Those actions reflect the willingness of the Uruguayan State to bolster its protection mechanisms and to guarantee access to fundamental rights for those who need international protection. This is part of Uruguay's commitments assumed at the Global Forum on Refugees continuing to work at a sustained level at national level towards its full implementation. Uruguay will participate actively at the next follow-up meeting, which will take place in December, with a view to continue assessing progress and challenges in implementation of assumed commitments and to strengthen cooperation among States and international partners. We realize that new realities and growing needs when it comes to the issue of refugees, meaning that every day states must seek more and more solutions for those who need international protection. But that shouldn't mean a distortion or weakening of the protection framework that international law and UNCHR's practice has built as a safeguard for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers. In that context, we want to reiterate our call to the international community and to donors that, through HCR, they support our efforts. Their support is essential to safeguard progress achieved and to guarantee the sustainability of the measures. Uruguay notes with concern the liquidity crisis affecting the international humanitarian system, having direct repercussions on response capacity given the growing needs of refugees and asylum seekers. That situation compromises the continuity of key programs and jeopardizes progress made when it comes to protection and integration. Our country therefore reiterates the urgent need to strengthen mechanisms for sustainable, predictable financing, consistent with the principles of solidarity and shared responsibility. At the same time, it would be remiss of Uruguay not to express its concern at the current crisis in multilateralism, characterized by fragmentation, erosion of trust and growing international tensions. We therefore reaffirm our commitment to international law, to the multilateral system and to the institutions that underpin it, convinced that it is only through dialogue, co-operation and respect for shared standards that we can provide effective, just responses to global challenges, including to forced displacement. Our commitment is also be seen through the Cartagena process and the recent adoption of the Chile Action Plan, instruments that consolidate a regional vision based on cooperation, increased protection and the search for lasting solutions. Uruguay reaffirms its support to those processes and will continue to participate actively in initiatives that bolster collective response to the challenge of displacement in our region. Uruguay expresses its sincere gratitude to HCR for its cooperation and support given and reaffirms the importance of maintaining and bolstering that cooperation. Only through joint coordinated work can we consolidate robust refugee systems, promote integration, and guarantee the welfare of all persons who seek in our country a safe haven to rebuild their lives and that of their families. Finally, we'd like to convey our gratitude and recognition to High Commissioner Grandi for his commitment and leadership. during his mandate and to wish him every success in his future endeavors. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [49:25]: I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Senegal. Senegal [49:38]: Mr. President, Chairman, High Commissioner. Senegal aligns with the statement made by Cote d'Ivoire on behalf of the African Group. In these particularly troubled times, my delegation hopes that this debate will help us address the future of HCR and help it move forward in faith and optimism. First, on behalf of Senegal, I would like here to pay tribute to High Commissioner Grandi and, through him, all HCR personnel. both in headquarters and in the field for their devotion and self-sacrifice in which they accomplish their mission despite the difficult times and what's more, uncertain times. High Commissioner, thank you for your clarity, for the depth, for your candidness and the instructive nature of your opening presentation and for your positive subsequent reactions. We note with regret, however, the critical scope of forced displacement in the world, which, as you said, carries the troubling figure of 122 million people forced into exile in various parts of the world due to war, persecutions and grave human rights violations. On top of this, problems linked to poverty, access to education and health, to exploitation abuse and violence, which pose a daily burden for displaced persons. And if that wasn't enough, coupled with all this, the shrinking financial resources have significantly undermined HCR's capacities with the drastic elimination of posts and offices. This situation requires a bolstered collective mobilization and a new wave of international solidarity to find effective, lasting solutions. Senegal echoes the call of the High Commissioner towards the partners, donors, and volunteers in the humanitarian sector for greater financial support to HCR. We also welcome the vision he set forth, suggesting new, practical, innovative approaches to integrate the concerns of host countries and communities, of which Senegal is one. Along those lines, we take note of streamlining and reorganization measures taken in response to the sudden budget cuts, calling for those measures to be more balanced so as not to negatively impact the raison d'etre of HCR and of host countries. Similarly, we welcome support for UNHCR reform and in that regard, call for cooperation with sister organization that share the same humanitarian work like the International Organization for Migration, and we're certain here that HCR will contribute to this effectively. Sir. true to its commitments under the treaties and to the Global Forum on Refugees of 2023, Senegal continues its efforts to strengthen its own asylum system and offer lasting solutions to refugees. Following adoption of the new law of 2022 on status, followed by the creation in 2023 of a national committee for management of refugees and stateless persons, my country enacted on 17th September decrees on admission procedures, deliverance and renewal of ID cards and travel passes for refugees. Moreover, continued naturalization process has enabled us in June 2025 to deliver 473 naturalization decrees. In other words, a quarter of the current applications on the books Senegal continues determined to facilitate socio-economic inclusion of refugees in national programs and to pursue favorable initiatives conducive to voluntary return of Mauritanian refugees as well as displaced people from Casamance so despite the current vagaries of this world it is possible to establish a better environment conducive to protection and well-being of displaced persons in other words the their uncertainties must never call into question the most important thing, the vital importance of HCR's mandate, as the High Commissioner stressed. It's not a time to give up, far from it. In conclusion, High Commissioner, I want to say that you do pride to the international community, to humanity as a whole. You merit all the praise you have heard here, and Senegal fully aligns with them and wishes you a long life. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [54:44]: I thank the distinguished Ambassador of Senegal, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada, His Excellency Ambassador Peter MacDougall. You have the floor, sir. Canada · Ambassador [54:58]: Mr. President, Chairperson, High Commissioner, Mr. Grandi, on behalf of the Government of Canada, it is my honour to express to you our deep gratitude for your decade of service and your resolute leadership. We hail your unwavering commitment to displaced populations as well as your advocacy based on the principles within the international protection system. We thank you for your strong statement and for your lucid assessment of the scope of forced displacement, the humanitarian needs, and the challenges that the international protection system is facing. At a time when multilateral cooperation and the standards that have been established are being tested like never before, Canada reiterates its commitment to the 1951 Convention and its 1967 Protocol. We acknowledge the Global Compact on Refugees as a pillar for solidarity and responsibility sharing. We are committed to collaborating with the new High Commissioner to preserve and conserve the integrity of the current asylum framework and to promote work based on protection, rooted in partnership and a shared goal, while responding to the legitimate concerns of the host countries and host communities. Canada recognizes the exceptionally difficult period that UNHCR is undergoing, together with its staff and the whole of the humanitarian community. We are aware that the financing crisis at the system level has led to significant cuts in operations and in staff. bringing considerable pressure to bear on staff and on partners, we keep in mind that refugees and host communities will suffer the most serious consequences of this. I'll conclude in English. In this context, we recognize UNHCR's efforts to take deeply challenging prioritization decisions in planning and budgeting. Canada has taken note of and sees merit in the Advisory Committee's recommendation to complement the needs-based budget with operationally realistic plans and projections, drawing on lessons from the World Food Programme. We look forward to engaging with UNHCR on how this recommendation could be implemented. We also recognize the important role of continuing to engage development actors and international financial institutions, including the World Bank. Given funding realities, it is more important than ever for UNHCR to focus on its unique protection mandate, delivering lifesaving assistance and advancing durable solutions. Finally, we look forward to the Global Refugee Forum progress review in December. As we take stock, we must remember that refugees and displaced populations are essential stakeholders in shaping the policies and processes that affect them. Their meaningful participation is critical to ensuring responses reflect real needs, uphold protection, and lend legitimacy to system-wide efforts. In this spirit, I now cede the floor to our Refugee Advisor, Damhat Zagros. Canada · Refugee Advisor [58:31]: I want to start by saying that the principle of asylum is lifesaving and must be upheld. We share the High Commissioner's concern about the narrative that questions the ongoing relevance of refugee protection regime, one that has saved millions of lives worldwide, including my own. We stand with the High Commissioner of Vision, critical rights-based measures grounded in the existing international protection framework, while recognizing the immense pressure on the host states and the generosity they continue to show. I know that Canada remains firmly committed to durable solution, including resettlement and to strengthen refugee protection globally, but it is imperative to address the root causes of displacement, conflict, persecution, inequality, and climate insecurity. The work extends beyond the UNCR mandate and requires member states to champion solution both domestically and across the UN system. We urge all the states to work closely with the UNCR to ensure aid reaches those most in need and to protect civilians, humanitarian personnel, journalists, under threats and the protection of civilians and those who courageously deliver aid is both shared duty and the measures of our humanity. Finally, at the heart of protection must be the meaningful participation of refugees at every level of policy, planning, and delivery. We refugees and displaced populations are not simply beneficiaries. We are partner with insight, and resolve to shape solutions that are just, sustainable, and grounded in dignity. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:00:13]: I thank the distinguished representatives of Canada, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan, His Excellency Ambassador Mr. Oike Asayuki. You have the floor, sir. Japan · Ambassador [1:00:29]: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairperson. High Commissioner, Excellencies, our distinguished colleagues, let me begin by expressing Japan's deep appreciation to all UNHCR personnel, including 4,400 staff members who recently had to leave the organization. We fully recognize the operational and emotional toll of those departures, both for those who have left and for the colleagues who remain. Despite this, UNHCR staff continue to serve with integrity and dedication. As we begin this session, Member States must first commend this unwavering commitment by the UNHCR. Humanitarian workers should be shown appreciation and respect, never hostility. Attacks on humanitarian personnel are absolutely unacceptable. Last month, Japan joined other 100 countries in endorsing the Declaration on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel. We are deeply concerned about the increasing disregard for international humanitarian law. Upholding IHL and the values it represents is our shared responsibility. Mr. Chair, over the past decade, the number of forcibly displaced persons worldwide has doubled. High Commissioner Grandi has led UNHCR through this increasingly challenging period, facing a growing gap between humanitarian needs and available resources. His leadership, along with the dedication of his team, deserves our deep appreciation. One notable success is UNHCR's deepened engagement with the private sector. Japan's private contributions to UNHCR has tripled over the last 10 years, with Japan ranking third globally last year. Furthermore, these partnerships go beyond funding. Networks for cooperation with Japanese companies are also expanding. At the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development held in August, Assistant High Commissioner Mazor's participation helped promote broader engagement of this kind. Mr. Chair, we support the sustainable response approach. This represents a concrete realization of the humanitarian development peace nexus and is effective in achieving all four objectives of the Global Compact on Refugees. UNHCR's collaboration with development agencies, development finance institutions, and local governments is not a retreat from responsibility. Rather, it reflects the recognition that durable solutions require broader and more inclusive partnerships. Whether the eventual solution takes the form of voluntary return, third country resettlement, or local inclusion, what is needed is support that enables people to envision a future where they can live with dignity and hope. For this reason, from the perspective of human security, support must go beyond humanitarian assistance alone. This, we believe, is at the core of sustainable responses. Discussions on the humanitarian reset should also highlight the importance of transitioning towards durable solutions that ensure a better future for those relying on humanitarian assistance. At the same time, host countries continue to keep their borders open and host refugees in protracted situations. And therefore, the development finance mobilized under the sustainable responses approach must be additional, not diverted from existing sources, because it should reflect international burden sharing. Let me share one example. In South Sudan, floods and climate change have severely affected both displaced persons and the host communities alike. In August, Japan provided additional funding to support 26,000 displaced persons, returnees, and host community members through a project on adaptive agroforestry and livestock production there. We are working to make sure that this funding will bring larger finance from other sources. The creation of conditions for voluntary return to countries of origin must also be pursued through sustainable responses. This month, Japan will host the Ukraine Mine Action Conference, aiming for the safe return and reconstruction of the lives of displaced Ukrainians. Finally, we attach high importance to the progress review meeting of the Global Refugee Forum this December. The meeting will provide a critical opportunity to assess progress renew efforts and demonstrate international solidarity, affirming multilateralism. Japan stands ready to contribute to its success. Thank you very much. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:05:53]: I thank the Ambassador of Japan. I now give the floor to the esteemed High Commissioner to provide his reactions to the statements delivered so far. You have the floor, sir. UNHCR · High Commissioner [1:06:08]: Thank you very much, Ambassador. Thank you, Chair. I will start with the first speaker. In fact, it was Iceland to really express our utmost gratitude for the role that it has played for many years. In fact, in its relationship with us, but with the broader multilateral system in defence not only of the various institutions, but also of the fundamental principles governing relations between states, international humanitarian law and the like. You have also put concrete measures to this defence of principles by being a strong donor, also proportionally to your population, your size. You have been exceptionally dynamic as a donor with a strong focus, as we know, on certain groups, on gender equality, on LGBT, refugees and asylum seekers, strengthening your resettlement. We are very grateful for that. And I hope I can say that I look forward to, before the end of my mandate, to visiting Iceland, finally, a long overdue visit. So I very much look forward to that. Hungary deserves our gratitude for hosting now for, I think, almost 20 years, almost 20 years, our second headquarters after Geneva. under very effective conditions. As I mentioned in my opening remarks, and I'm sure the Deputy High Commissioner will speak more about it, Budapest will also be the location of part, at least, of the service of the Global Shares Service. This is not really an office, it's a service, but much of its capacity will be located in Budapest, so this is positive for us. I took note of the many points that you have raised regarding the movements of refugees and migrants. I agree with you that we must maintain the distinction very clearly. These are two groups of people moving together, but for different reasons. And I also agree with you that we must avoid any abuse of the asylum system by those that do not have needs for international protection. I'm actually equally, if not more, worried by another type of conflation, defining refugees as illegal migrants. That happens very often as well. So, okay, that we keep the distinction, but then let's keep the distinction all the way. I think that's very important. By the way, on many of the points that you and others have raised, on transfer to third countries, readmission to countries upstream, return of rejected asylum seekers. Let me say again what I said in my opening statement. We have published recently a series of documents on these issues, and before hearing again, not from you but from others, that we need to have an overhaul of the system, go read these documents, because there's a lot in these documents that allows states to go forward within the boundaries of legality. And in this spirit, I thank Italy for having very clearly expressed in its statement a defense of international principles and instruments. I hope I'm not saying anything wrong, but I'm proud as an Italian myself that the right to seek asylum is enshrined in our constitution. So that's very important that it continues to be upheld. Italy has been working for some years now on the so-called Mattei Plan. The Mattei Plan is a very, I've said it many times, is a very positive vision of upstream investments to stabilize population flows. I spoke about it in, didn't call it a Mattei Plan, but it's the same concept that I have really promoted very much in the last few years, and we hope that Italy can continue a champion of this approach within Europe and beyond, including, by the way, on offering to some of the people on the move complementary pathways, resettlement, and other forms of safe journeys onwards, which Italy is doing. And thank you also for remaining a good donor and unlike others, not decreasing your contribution. Same for Ireland, in fact. Ireland also, like I mentioned Iceland before, throughout my tenure, 10 years, I have to really commend the conviction and effectiveness and strength with which Ireland has defended human rights. And to quote you, Ambassador, human rights, gender equality, and climate action, this is a good trio of focus, of important areas of focus, which are very relevant also to our work, as you said, and Ireland, be it in the years in which it was a member of the Security Council, in other fora, including our own fora, has always been a champion of this very important, and I could see this by myself, as you mentioned, during my recent visit to Dublin. Important that you mention, and please, I say, you know, some of these responses are meant for the state who made the declaration, but is meant for everybody, this important emphasis on flexible contributions. This is really our main problem at the moment. Let me say it again, inflexible contributions becoming very earmarked, not yours, you are doing the opposite, Ireland, and a few others, but please follow that example because that makes us much more effective. I congratulate Romania on its 70th anniversary of joining the UN, if I understood correctly. That's very good. And cooperation with you has been indeed. I went to Romania at the beginning of the Ukraine crisis in 2022, and since then we have continued, as you said, to cooperate very much, especially on the issue of Ukrainian refugees, but also beyond. The Timisoara transit center continue to be a useful tool that we can use in some exceptional situations, but a good model that I think is worth a little bit more attention also by others. My thanks to Uruguay for having adopted innovative measures. in asylum and recognition of the status of refugee. I know these measures very well. They're very valuable and they're very important. I would also like to underline Uruguay's dynamism in terms of its participation in various fora in the Global Compact for Refugees the global forum, but also in regional fora in Latin America, addressing these issues, issues of migration, international cooperation, the issue of documentation, and other issues of common and shared interest. It's vitally important that this cooperation continue. It's based, in the case of Uruguay, on very strong principles of solidarity and international cooperation. To move to Africa, Cameron also spoke of administrative and legal measures to support refugees. Cameron remains one of the countries hosting the highest number of refugees in the region, in the subregion and across Africa. And I welcome the fact that now there are tripartite cooperation frameworks. You've had them. around for some time, but they've always been active. But the ambassador highlighted this with Nigeria and with the CAR, if I'm not mistaken. And I followed the Yaounde conference that was held some years ago in Cameroon to consider how to expedite return for Central African refugees. And I think that that process, which did bring about a certain amount of feedback and return, and I think that that did facilitate a number of returns, and I think that could be useful going forward. So thank you for having highlighted the importance of those fora, and thank you for everything you're doing in Cameroon. Burkina Faso as well, like many countries, I'm pleased to hear talked about an improvement in the administrative and legal procedures. vis-a-vis refugees on the territory of that country, of course. In the case of Burkina, you're also talking about a sizable group of internally displaced persons and the return of Malian refugees. And I know that this is ongoing, we're aware of this, and we're trying to support it in an extremely complex security situation. I wanted to commend Burkina Faso particularly for having participated actively in the Lome dialogue, which, as you said, was undertaken a few months ago against the backdrop of the regional context, because many people in neighboring countries came from that country and the dialogue is to promote the voluntary return of Burkinabe refugees to their country when the conditions are right. So I think it's important to stress the importance of that for countries of origin as well. My thanks to Senegal as well. You described at the outset of your excellent speech the complex links between refugees, displacement, conflicts and poverty. And I would also add climate change to that mix as well. All of this. makes things particularly complex in certain areas of Africa, in the Western Africa, in the Sahel, for example, they make the responses much more complex. But you well described the foundation upon which we must build these responses. You've also made progress domestically, legislative, practical, in terms of documentation and inclusion of refugees. This was something that I saw myself when I visited Senegal a year or two ago. And I'd conclude firstly by thanking you for having a wish me long life. That's always good to hear. And secondly, I just wanted to come back to your last sentence. This is not the time to give up to let things go. And I completely agree with you there. So thank you to move to Canada. 10 years of mandate for myself, 10 years of very strong, very close, a very solid, robust collaboration, cooperation with Canada. I thank you for that. And I really want to take this opportunity to thank you deeply and also for having reiterated what you're doing in practice, the importance of preserving the integrity of the asylum framework. To say that your suggestions regarding the budgets are very welcome. I do understand, I think it was also in the UK statement, some suggestions on how to evolve the budget. We have to be careful in evolving the budget to make it maybe more realistic, more clear in terms of prioritization, not to make a budget a cage within which UNHCR cannot make decisions anymore. Sorry to be very blunt, but the budget cannot become a micromanagement of our resources. But, of course, I agree that the budget must be clearer in terms of how the resources are prioritized and destined. So we need to strike a balance between these important dynamics, one negative and one positive. And I want to thank your refugee advisor for having spoken from, not from the heart, but from his life, his experience, and having endorsed what I said yesterday, that asylum saves lives. Thank you for that. That's why it's important. I want to commend Canada and Germany that spoke earlier today for having maintained the practice of having a refugee advisor present in the delegation. The Philippines also expressed a strong defense of international system. Thank you very much. Thank you for what the Philippines have been doing in a quiet but effective way for quite some time to offer opportunities to Rohingya refugees. This is very much appreciated also in the spirit of the conference that we have just held. Well. in which I have just participated in New York last week, which looked at all this opportunity to be given to one of the most discriminated groups in the world, if I may say. And thank you, Philippines. You often report back on your progress on statelessness. Thank you for keeping it on the agenda. It's very important. Last, but certainly not least, I would say that I thought it was important that Japan, one of our strongest partners, donors, supporters, allies, has started its statement by recognizing not only all our colleagues, but those who have left. I think it's important to remember that we have almost 5,000, in fact, the number is even higher than what you quoted, almost 5,000 colleagues that don't work for us. The impact of these cuts is on refugees, on displaced people, on stateless people, primarily. But UNHCR has also suffered a human loss, and I think it's important to recognize that, and I thank Japan for having thought of that. In the context also of your general concern for the welfare, the protection of humanitarian workers, you are part of the initiative in which I participated in New York in the launch of that initiative. You also reminded us of the importance of private donations, which indeed in Japan are rising every year, both individual donations, but also companies, foundations, private institutions. This is a very important source, by the way, especially individual donations of unearmarked funding. So very important to continue to grow that. And I would be remiss if I didn't say that we continue to appreciate Japan's championship of the so-called nexus of of, in our case, sustainable responses, we really count on your strong advocacy. And may I say, I hope, Ambassador, that I look forward to my visit to Japan, which is as early as next week. Thank you very much. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:22:49]: Thank you, High Commissioner. We'll now continue with our speakers list. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Turkey, His Excellency Ambassador Burak Akpak. You have the floor, sir. Türkiye · Ambassador [1:23:08]: Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:23:10]: The high-- Mic, please. Türkiye · Ambassador [1:23:21]: Mr. Chairperson, the High Commissioner has already outlined the extraordinary circumstances surrounding our meeting very accurately. Since our last ExCom meeting, new and ongoing crises have continued to reshape the global humanitarian landscape. This year alone, massive new waves of displacement have further strained an already overstretched humanitarian system. Conflict and instability have again, this year, driven millions from their homes, deepening already dire conditions. Israel's systematic practice of forced displacement, deliberate starvation, destruction of civilian infrastructure, and the obstruction of humanitarian aid are all serious breaches of international law that demand accountability. These must stop. We firmly reject any attempt to displace Palestinians from their homes. Gaza belongs to the Palestinian people, and it must remain so. Turkey supports all genuine efforts towards an immediate and lasting ceasefire. The situation in Sudan and Afghanistan, among others, also remain of deep concern. But overall, the humanitarian system stands at a critical crossroads. The principles guiding our response to forced displacement are being tested as never before. Needs continue to rise while resources decline. Funding gaps are widening, resettlement opportunities have stalled, and vital operations face severe shortfalls. A lot has been said on these, but let me add Turkey's voice. Recent budget reductions and institutional downsiding should not come at the expense of UNHCR's effectiveness and leave the most vulnerable behind. Cost containment and doing less with less cannot be our answer, while doing more with less is unrealistic. Where UNHCR holds comparative advantages, its essential delivery and outreach must be preserved. In the spirit of the UN80 and the ongoing discussions on humanitarian reset, we must adopt a holistic approach that places refugees and host communities at the center. Pursuing sustainable responses is vital, but host countries cannot be expected to shoulder the burden alone. Today, more than ever, international solidarity and equitable burden-sharing are indispensable. As the High Commissioner rightly noted, we must remain engaged. That is the essence of humanitarian diplomacy. Turkey continues to host approximately 2.45 million Syrians under temporary protection and nearly 150,000 asylum seekers of other nationalities. Syria has entered a delicate phase requiring enhanced international engagement across humanitarian, political and economic dimensions. The world cannot afford to fail Syria again. Syria's recovery depends on coordinated international efforts that combine humanitarian assistance, reconstruction, and sustainable solutions. UNHCR will remain pivotal in this process, especially ensuring that voluntary returns are conducted safely, voluntarily, and in dignity. On her part, Turkey fully adheres to UN parameters and the principle of non-refoulement. Mr. Chairperson, We extend our heartfelt appreciation to High Commissioner Filippo Grandi for his decade of dedicated leadership. We acknowledge his distinguished service and appreciate his steadfast leadership in guiding UNHCR through one of the most unprecedented times of history. Filippo, your tireless efforts Unwavering commitment and strategic vision have made a real difference in addressing record number of forcibly displaced worldwide. Turkey is honored to nominate Ambassador Ahmet Yildiz as the next High Commissioner, a seasoned diplomat with significant experience in migration and refugee affairs, gained in a country hosting one of the world's largest refugee populations. We wish every success to other candidates and pledge our full support to the next High Commissioner. Looking ahead, the second High Level Officials Meeting in December 2025 will be an opportunity to review progress since the Global Refugee Forum 2023 and to shape the priorities towards GRF 2027. As I conclude, let me reaffirm that UNHCR's mandate and expertise are irreplaceable. At this critical juncture, there is no other institution with the same legitimacy, experience, nor capacity to shoulder its responsibilities. As one of the world's leading host countries, Turkey remains firmly committed to working closely with UNHCR to protect and assist all those who are forced to flee. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:28:20]: I thank the Ambassador of Turkey. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco, His Excellency Ambassador Omar Snaiber. You have the floor, sir. Morocco · Ambassador [1:28:35]: Thank you, Vice-Chairman, High Commissioner, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. At this 75th session of the HCR ExCom, Morocco reiterates its firm commitment to the principles and values that guide humanitarian action at international level, to the role of HCR and the High Commissioner in particular in that respect. In a global context where more than 120 million people have been taken from their homes, our collective responsibility and that of HCR is to redouble our efforts to provide responses commensurate to human dignity and legal obligations that fall on us all in this context. Humanitarian action must be based on those principles, it must in all circumstances scrupulously respect neutrality, impartiality that our action requires. The apolitical nature of refugee protection should not suffer any ambiguity. Similarly, the principle of responsibility that requires transparency must guide our efforts. Let me, Commissioner, give you an example. You said yesterday, Commissioner, in the Tindouf desert in Algeria. Hope for 50 years have been disappeared. Children are born and grow up there knowing nothing but the camp. It's a moral scandal that calls out to us all and obliges us to identify the accountability or liability of those who by action or omission have allowed this to go on for more than 50 years. It's imperative to bolster follow-up and oversight mechanisms to guarantee that every assistance reaches the beneficiaries, especially in Tindouf camp in Algeria. Every mobilized resource must contribute to a lasting solution without be diverted from that humanitarian objective. We stress the overriding importance of registration of refugee populations. It's a matter not just of better planning of assistance, but also respecting fundamental rights as as provided for in the conventions that bring us together and in the norms that we have all adopted in that respect. It is time for us to see leadership of HCR on this file consolidated and fully exercised. Specifically, that means calling with force the launching of independent registration and stressed that rule of law and refugee protection should be restored in the camps to finally reach a lasting solution for those populations who for 50 years have been denied all this. And we reiterate your appeal yesterday concerning that subject to see that conflict come to an end as soon as possible. In that regard, humanitarian neutrality must never be mixed up with passivity in the face of injustice. After 50 years, inaction is no longer an option. Since 2005, the bureau of the High Commissioner for Refugees inspector general qualified the situation in Tindouf as an abnormal, unique situation in the annals of the High Commissioner for Refugees. He recommended as a priority registration of the population census. Yet, 20 years later, that crucial recommendation remains dead letter, despite the stipulations of Security Council resolutions, which call absolutely forcefully that that census be carried out to clarify the situation. It's also crucial to guarantee free, unhindered humanitarian access to the population in Tindouf. Morocco stresses in that regard that respecting the strictly civilian humanitarian nature of the camp is an inviolable principle. It's also a matter for our organization to ensure that refugees should not suffer any exploitation, pressure, or violation their rights to be able to move unhindered. We will provide tangible evidence when we discuss the budget that is introduced for the 75th session. The Kingdom of Morocco trusts that the guiding principles of neutrality, impartiality, responsibility, transparency, effective registration, guaranteed humanitarian access and the civilian nature should continue to guide HCR's actions. We record all these fundamental principles. I want to reiterate that my country, Morocco, remains a land of asylum, giving asylum to people seeking refuge and those forced into migration. Morocco has an institutional legal framework to allow it to deploy this policy of generosity and comprehension. My country has also provided significant humanitarian aid at international level, including through channels of the HCR, and will continue to do so, reflecting with other partners about what the appropriate action to take to make the topic of the humanitarian issues a priority, to keep it a priority on the international agenda. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:33:50]: I thank the Ambassador of Morocco. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria, Her Excellency, Ambassador Desiree Schweitzer. You have the floor. Austria · Ambassador [1:34:03]: Austria aligns with the statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of like-minded European states. At the outset, let me thank all UNHCR staff in the field and at headquarters for their dedication and hard work in difficult and dangerous operating environments. And on a personal note, and also on behalf of my country, especially, I want to thank High Commissioner Filippo Grandi for his outstanding leadership in these past 10 years, and in particularly challenging times. And I wish you all the best for your next endeavors. Chair, we are deeply concerned about the continuously rising number of forcibly displaced and stateless persons, which threatens to climb up to 136 million in 2026. War, conflict, and human rights violations continue to uproot millions of people, forcing them to leave behind the lives they have built and stripping them of all means of livelihood. We condemn in the strongest terms the continued unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression committed by Russia against Ukraine, which is in its fourth year and has displaced more than 3.7 million people within Ukraine and over 6.7 million beyond Ukraine's borders, predominantly in Europe. We are deeply concerned about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and Sudan, which have resulted in millions of persons being forced to flee their homes. Within this context, we call upon all parties to armed conflict globally to strictly abide by the obligations to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law under all circumstances. This includes the obligation to grant full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and guarantee the safety of humanitarian workers and corridors. Chair, amidst the current funding situation, we appreciate UNHCR's commitment to maximizing impact where it matters most. We welcome UNHCR's work within the UNAD and humanitarian reset processes to become a leaner and more focused organization. Please be assured that Austria remains committed to multilateralism, the rule of law, and the rules-based world order, and will stay a predictable and reliable partner for UNHCR. We are proud to be among UNHCR's top donors, and for many years, the Office has been one of our largest partners in the implementation of our humanitarian assistance. Austria appreciates that, despite budget reductions, UNHCR's operations continue to focus on youth engagement, women-led initiatives and support to host communities. We value that UNHCR invests in meaningful participation of displaced persons, including by partnering with community-led organizations, particularly those run by women. Austria will continue to support the Office's precious work in line with our strategy on humanitarian assistance. As the strategy sets out, Austria, in responding to humanitarian crises, commits to enhance its focus on vulnerable groups, including LGBTIQ+ persons. Chair, the Federal Government of Austria, which took office at the beginning of March this year, in its government program, envisages ambitious steps on the international level to address forced displacement globally and important reforms of the Austrian asylum system in full accordance with the provisions of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. Austria is committed to contribute towards the reduction of the causes of forced displacement globally and the provision of assistance on the ground. In order to tackle global crisis and reduce the causes of forced displacement, Austria is continuing its support for UNHCR and other humanitarian organizations in crisis regions, especially in 75 refugee camps. Furthermore, Austria will work towards the strengthening of measures against migrant smuggling and on the protection of victims of human trafficking. Migrant smugglers and human traffickers exploit the vulnerability of refugees, leading to violence, abuse, and often fatal consequences. Austria's efforts strive towards safe living conditions, access to legal and social support, and the delivery of targeted assistance for traumatized victims of violence and torture. Austria hosts a diverse population with a continuously high number of asylum seekers and migrants. It is one of the key refugee hosting countries in Europe. In 2025, asylum has been granted to more than 5,870 persons. This is the fifth highest number within the EU. Subsidiary protection to more than 5,360 persons and humanitarian stay to 8,490 persons. In addition, more than 87,000 displaced persons from Ukraine are currently living in Austria. Austria welcomes the route-based approach jointly advanced by UNHCR and IOM that offers a strategic framework designed to address the complex challenges faced by refugees along key routes and across countries of origin, asylum, transit, and destination. We value the support of particularly affected host countries and communities, as well as the strengthening of burden and responsibility sharing as enshrined in the Global Compact on Refugees. Being a party to both UN statelessness conventions, Austria welcomes UNHCR's and the international community's efforts to end statelessness. In particular, we commend South Sudan for its accession to both UN statelessness conventions, Slovenia for its accession to the 61 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness, and Malaysia for establishing gender equal nationality rights. Austria looks forward to the upcoming Global Refugee Forum progress review this December as a welcomed opportunity for Member States to reaffirm the support to refugees and host countries. Let me conclude by reiterating the full support of Austria to the High Commissioner and the dedicated staff of UNHCR in being the lifeline and voice of refugees and forcibly displaced persons wherever they are. Thank you very much. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:40:23]: I thank the Ambassador of Austria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonia, Her Excellency Mrs. Ria Salsa Odi. You have the floor, Ambassador. Estonia · Ambassador [1:40:41]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Estonia aligns with the statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of like-minded European states. I would like to start by expressing Estonia's gratitude to UNHCR for its outstanding efforts and steadfast commitment during global crisis. And to High Commissioner Grandi personally, your leadership and tireless service over the past decade have left a powerful legacy. Amid unprecedented challenges, UNHCR relentlessly strives to provide humanity and dignity to those in greatest need, whether by safeguarding vulnerable communities, delivering essential aid, protecting the asylum system, or supporting the restoration of lives in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and many other places globally. Unfortunately, we cannot go without reiterating this. Russia's ongoing brutal and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine represents a clear and systematic violation of the UN Charter and international law. And it remains the primary cause of forced displacement across Europe, further aggravated by the attacks against civilian population and infrastructure. In 2025, civilian harm has increased significantly, with total casualties during the first eight months rising by 40% compared to the same period in 2024. Today, nearly half of Ukraine's population is in urgent need of humanitarian assistance as a direct consequence of an aggression caused by a permanent member of the UN Security Council. Mr. Chair. Estonia is doing its part by helping and alleviating the suffering. We are hosting more than 40,000 refugees, that is 3% of our own population. Around 90% of them are well settled in the country and engaged in employment or education. UNHCR support in Estonia and the wider region as part of the regional refugee response plan is much appreciated. We also understand the importance of predictability on next year's budget, stressed yesterday by High Commissioner. I'm pleased to note that Estonia has already made its regular contributions for 2026, including to UNHCR. Mr. Chair, we are not only facing an increasing number of humanitarian crises around the world, but this is amplified by questioning the global asylum system and severe reduction of available funding that the humanitarian sector is facing. We appreciate the difficult decisions that UNHCR has already implemented. We all have to contribute to make the humanitarian and refugee system fit for purpose, given the resources available. implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum is a great example of a systematic change that, when implemented, provides more transparent, coherent and faster support for individuals in need of international protection. UNHCR has an important role in the legislative reform in the EU. We thank UNHCR for this contribution. We have also no doubts that UNHCR will play an active and constructive part in the ongoing humanitarian reset, as well as the UN80 initiative. It's important that we make the right choices by focusing on UNHCR's core mandate and make the best use of our limited resources. This is also where the work on durable solutions, IDPs, and digital innovation is crucial, as it helps reduce future burden on the humanitarian cluster. Similarly to people you work for, UNHCR as an organization is in the midst of unparalleled changes. We remain confident and stand with UNHCR to make sure this transformation reinforces organization's mandate and the global refugee protection framework, whilst making UNHCR more resilient to the rapidly changing world. I thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:44:51]: I thank the Ambassador of Estonia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia. Australia [1:45:02]: High Commissioner, Chair, Your Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Australia would like to align itself with the upcoming MICTR statement to be delivered by the Republic of Korea. Australia acknowledges the tireless efforts of UNHCR staff and the risks they face working in dangerous environments. 2024 was the deadliest year on record for humanitarian workers, and tragically, this trend has continued in 2025. Since the start of 2024, over 670 humanitarian personnel have been killed. Respect for international humanitarian law is being severely undermined, with consequences for current and future conflicts. On the 21st of September, after a year-long diplomatic effort to drive global action to protect humanitarian workers in conflict zones, Australia and the ministerial group of Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Sierra Leone, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom launched the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel. The endorsement of the declaration by 110 countries, more than half the membership of the United Nations, reflects a growing consensus that the protection of humanitarian personnel must be elevated on the international agenda. We look forward to working with Member States through the Group of Friends for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel to achieve tangible progress on this important issue. We appreciate the incredible pressure the humanitarian system is under and acknowledge the substantial needs that will go unmet in 2025. Australia's support for UNHCR and the multilateral system remains steadfast. We are proud to provide predictable, multi-year, flexible funding to support the essential work of UNHCR and the work it undertakes in Asia and the Pacific. In addition to our reliable core funding, we continue to work with UNHCR and other key stakeholders to deliver our Global Refugee Forum pledges, including to support refugee responses in our region. Since the GRF, Australia has increased its commitment of humanitarian assistance to support Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh, and communities in need in Myanmar, from $235 million to $629 million. This includes a new three-year program of $370 million starting in 2026. We acknowledge UNHCR's critical work in supporting the interim government of Bangladesh to provide essential services and meet the protection needs of Rohingya refugees, and its work across Myanmar to protect, assist and find lasting solutions for displaced and stateless people. UNHCR has played a critical role in delivering on Australia's commitment to responsibility sharing and to our region. High Commissioner, as you preside over your last Executive Committee, Australia wishes to thank you for your leadership and dedication in galvanising international solidarity to address global displacement and foster durable solutions for refugees. We trust your successor will continue the important work you have spearheaded, including to develop the Global Compact on Refugees and ensure its commitments are delivered on through the Global Refugee Forum. We want your tireless work on whole-of-route approaches and partnerships, with the World Bank for example, to continue. Australia remains a proud partner of UNHCR as we all work to reform the humanitarian system and safeguard protection for all those who need it. Australia supports ambitious and bold reform to enable the humanitarian system to be streamlined, coordinated, effective and fit for the future. We stand ready to engage as a key consultative partner for the UN system as changes are considered. We will also continue to collaborate with UNHCR to advance the refugee participation agenda and to ensure refugee voices inform our policy and programs in a systematic and impactful way. I am honoured now to introduce Dr. Renee Dixon, a valued member of the Australian Refugee Advisory Panel. Australia · Refugee Advisor [1:49:16]: Thank you, Your Excellencies and colleagues. We meet at a time when international humanitarian law is under severe strain. Across cities, across crises, displacement is rising alongside increasing challenges to universal protections, including vulnerable groups. These efforts destabilise multiracial systems, silence civil society and push people into the systemic marginalisation. Australia's humanitarian policy recognises that women, children, people with disabilities and LGBTQ communities are disproportionately affected in these crises. Evidence shows that forcibly displaced LGBTQ communities may experience barriers to protection, recognition, and services across all stages of displacement and settlement. Barriers to access shelters, justice, health, education, employment, and housing, as well as humanitarian assistance and access to aid. LGBTQ people remain at the higher risk of violence and discrimination. My service on the advisory board to the Australian government and UNHCR gives me hope. In 2024, 56% of UNHCR country operations had implemented programs and activities that incorporating the needs of LGBTQ people. When refugees and stateless people and IDPs coming together with the policymakers, we create effective and evidence-based strategies and solutions. The meaningful refugee participation pledge has opened up these spaces and advisory board have proven to be indispensable. Inclusive representation of displaced people brings expertise grounded in lived experience and strengthens solutions, empowers community, fosters belonging, and benefits. Economy. It also helps to dismantle stereotypes, reduce stigma, and promote mutual respect and social cohesion. We call on UNHCR and all member states to embed meaningful refugee participation across all decisions, policies, and programming. Recognizing the intersecting and compounding disadvantages, resourcing. Refugee-led organizations and sharing decision-making power are essential to making solutions that are real and lasting. I thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:51:37]: I thank the distinguished representatives of Australia, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malta, His Excellency Ambassador Randolph DeBattista. You have the floor, sir. Malta · Ambassador [1:51:52]: Thank you, Chair, High Commissioner, distinguished delegates. Malta aligns itself with the statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of like-minded European states and would like to make the additional remarks in its national capacity. At the outset, I wish to first thank the High Commissioner for his statement and for his leadership to steer UNHCR in these unprecedented and challenging times. It is indeed unprecedented to have so many conflict situations which are causing high numbers of people displaced and are putting immense pressure on UNHCR and humanitarian organizations. Among these, I wish to highlight that Russia's illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, which, as the High Commissioner outlined in his statement, caused the fastest large-scale displacement since World War II, has now entered its fourth year. At the same time, the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza is leading to forced displacement and suffering to too many civilians. The role of UNHCR in addressing humanitarian needs in these unfolding crises remains as crucial as ever for the millions of vulnerable persons. In this context, Malta advocates the importance of upholding the values and principles enshrined in international humanitarian law that protects civilians, aid workers, and allows for humanitarian access. The Mediterranean continued to witness an increase of arrivals across different routes for another year as a result of instability in the region. This is presenting significant challenges to countries such as Malta and other host countries in our region. I welcome the High Commissioner's efforts to adjust operations to ensure sustainability and sound management due to financial constraints, which required difficult decisions. To reiterate its support to UNHCR, Malta has for the current year increased its financial contributions compared to previous years. This reflects our conviction that the present moment calls for greater rather than lesser investment in humanitarian action. Malta supported the UN Global Compact on Refugees since its inception. We therefore welcome the upcoming holding of the High Level Officials Meeting of the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review in December, and we look forward to the constructive engagement from all parties. Malta also expresses its support for the non-discriminatory and human rights-based approach of the UNHCR in its operations in the field, including the principles of age, gender and diversity. UNHCR continues to be an indispensable partner and we highly appreciate UNHCR's continued assistance and cooperation, particularly through its offices in Malta. To conclude, I wish to pay tribute to all UNHCR staff for their commitment in working under very difficult circumstances. These are the real heroes who work day and night to save lives and to help people achieve their dreams. I thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [1:55:26]: I thank the Ambassador of Malta. And I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Portugal, His Excellency Ambassador Mira Gomes. You have the floor. Portugal · Ambassador [1:55:38]: Thank you, Chair. Portugal aligns itself with the statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of like-minded European states, and thanks the High Commissioner for his opening statement. From Gaza to Sudan, as of August 25, more than 250 UN workers have been killed. Our first words must therefore be to honour them and express our deep gratitude for their selfless work. Humanitarian workers cannot and should not be targets. International humanitarian law must be upheld and fully observed in all circumstances. Chair, since this Executive Committee last convened, displacement and statelessness increased 6% compared to 2023, amounting to almost 113 million forcibly displaced persons, 7 million more than the previous year. We are alarmed by the looming funding situation facing UNHCR. Despite a revised budget, only 69% of the needs have been met. This shortfall should concern us all, and work remains crucial to protect and support refugees and forcibly displaced persons, particularly in host countries, which should not be left to shoulder the burden alone. But let's not just talk numbers. Let us speak of the men, women and children whose livelihoods are threatened and homes destroyed. The girls and boys left without an education, jeopardizing the future of a whole generation. The doctors, nurses and aid workers who stay behind to care for those in need. Let's speak of all those who flee for their lives, leaving their loved ones behind. These people are not just numbers or statistics. These are not just civilian casualties. They are individuals with names and aspirations. They represent communities, and their protection is the main tenet of international humanitarian law. Chair, Portugal attached the utmost importance to climate action, and we would have welcomed the opportunity to discuss this issue during this session, as foreseen in the 2023 work plan. Climate change is deeply connected to displacement and human mobility. Over the past 10 years, weather-related disasters have caused around 120 million internal displacements, about 60,000 per day. By mid-24, over 90 million displaced persons were already living in countries with high to extreme exposure to climate-related hazards. Refugees and internally displaced people often find themselves in climate hotspots, facing repeated displacements, heightened food insecurity, and growing competition over scarce resources such as water and land. Climate change does not itself cause conflict, but it exacerbates fragility and magnifies pre-existing vulnerabilities, compounding humanitarian crisis. Recognizing climate change As a risk multiplier for global peace and security, our country has consistently championed a multilateral path, being among the first signatories of the Paris Agreement and the first in the world to commit to carbon neutrality, now advanced to 2045. Chair, once more, Portugal has one of the highest scores on the Migrant Integration Policy Index 2025, in third place, with a total of 83 points out of 100. This has been possible through an hour inclusive approach to integration, such as ensuring labor market access, political participation, legal protection from discrimination, and secure pathways to permanent residence. Refugees in Portugal enjoy the same rights as legally resident foreigners, including equal access to education, employment, healthcare under the National Health Service, housing, and freedom of movement, often under the same condition as Portuguese nationals. Chair, over 70 years since the Geneva Convention on refugees, policies and programs have broad progress, yet needs still outpace resources. Funding presents a serious challenge, and much more must be done. In this context, Portugal reaffirms its commitment to international refugee law, the principle of non-refoulement, and the right to seek asylum. We will continue to support the vital and lifesaving work of UNHCR and uphold our collective responsibility to protect those forced to flee, looking ahead to the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review in December as an opportunity to assess progress and renew our shared commitments. And last, but certainly not least, I would like to refer to the High Commissioner. This is as your mandate is coming to an end. Allow me to express Portugal's profound appreciation and gratitude for your tireless work and unwavering support for the world's refugees forcibly displaced and stateless persons, particularly those in the most vulnerable situations. Thank you very much. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:01:13]: I thank the Ambassador of Portugal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico, Excellency Ambassador Francisca Mendez Escobar. You have the floor, Madam. Mexico · Ambassador [2:01:29]: Thank you very much, Chairman. Mexico aligns itself with the GRULAC statement delivered by Brazil. We thank the High Commissioner for his presentation, and we share his concern at the complex political and financial scenario that we are facing. in which displacement is worsening and resources and political will are shrinking. Mexico is a firm defender of multilateralism and respect for international law and the institutional structure tasked with ensuring its compliance. The Convention on the Status of Refugees and the figure of asylum are key pillars to help us face a global context in which violence, conflicts and disasters linked to climate change are being exacerbated. We are convinced that the Global Compact on Refugees and the regional initiatives, such as the Chile Declaration and Plan of Action as a result of the Cartagena+40 process, are key to guiding and strengthening our protection policies and for promoting inclusive, sustainable solutions that are anchored in international cooperation. Our policies and legal frameworks must be rooted in human rights, including guarantees of due process and procedural safeguards, the promotion of family unity, and respect for the principle of non-refoulement. The gender perspective and care for specific needs of persons in vulnerable situations must continue to be cross-cutting pillars in the work of the organization and international organizations. Chairperson, Mexico has proven itself to be a destination country of persons seeking asylum. In 2023, we achieved a historic maximum with over 140,000 requests received. In 2024, we received almost 79,000. placing us among the 10 countries with the highest number of requests received. In 2025, we have a record of 52,597 requests and 10,719 individuals have been recognized as refugees. This has required unprecedented bolstering of our asylum system. This has been made possible thanks to the technical support and financial support of UNHCR, as well as the commitment of Mexico to individuals with protection and needs for international protection. We have also adopted measures to ensure the right of refugees to education, to work, to obtaining identity documents and travel documents, financial inclusion and permanent residence. In our country, the local integration program involves refugees with labor opportunities in the formal labor market. It's benefited over 50,000 people and has thereby contributed to their integration and self-sufficiency. We have also established multi-service centers. The last was opened last week in the city of Tapachul in Chiapas. It will provide legal advice, documentation, medical support and psychosocial assistance, as well as support to girls, boys and adolescents who are unaccompanied, as well as job offers and well-being programs. in fulfilling the obligations that Mexico shouldered at the second refugee forum, we this year set up a multi-stakeholder coordination mechanism to open and promote significant participatory spaces for refugees and asylum seekers in decision making. Chairperson, The financial crisis that we are facing is endangering the progress and good practices that have emerged as a product of our joint work. Thus, we would call upon donor countries and the private sector to strengthen their financial support. Mexico has demonstrated its commitment by increasing its voluntary contribution this year. Today, more than ever, we must redouble efforts to address the structural causes that give rise to displacement, as well as honouring the principle of shared responsibility. Solidarity with individuals who require international protection and with countries that host them is vital. Mexico reiterates its interest in maintaining close collaboration with UNHCR and with all relevant stakeholders and reiterates its commitment to the development of policies addressing the differentiated needs of refugees to ensure that there is an effective sustainable response. I'd like to conclude my remarks by acknowledging the tireless commendable work of the High Commissioner Filippo Grandi at the head of this organization. His commitment to the humanitarian causes will have had an impact on the lives of millions of individuals across the world. Mr. Filippo Grandi, you should feel extremely proud of your legacy at UNHCR. Thank you very much and congratulations, sir. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:07:12]: I thank the Ambassador of Mexico. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia. Colombia [2:07:24]: Thank you, Chairperson. Colombia aligns itself with the joint statement of GRULAC delivered yesterday by the delegation of Brazil as regional coordinator, as well as the statement by the co-sponsors of the second Global Forum on Turning to Mr. High Commissioner Filippo Grandi, Colombia would like to recognize and thank you for all of the support that the organization has provided to our country under your mandate and to all refugees that UNHCR has assisted over the time that you have headed this organization. Your words and your recognition towards Colombia in your opening remarks, where you highlighted the work that our country has done to regularize and integrate around 3 million migrants in our country, are a sign of the positive results that the joint work has yielded in collaboration with the international community. UNHCR has been a vital partner in legal efforts by the national government to provide health, education, social security, and socially integrate around 3 million migrants. Of these, as you rightly said, around 2 million have become regularized. They've regularized their legal status through the temporary protection status for Venezuelans. This was granted by the government of Colombia. What Colombia has done over recent years is a clear sign that doors can be opened to the most in need, and this can be done in full respect for human rights. Colombia has gone from being a country of origin of migrants to becoming one of the main recipients of migrants and refugees. And the support has been vital in this process. We share the view of the High Commissioner as to the need to preserve the international protection framework, given the structural causes for displacement and moving towards sustainable, lasting solutions. That is why, High Commissioner, today we'd like to send a message of solidarity to the organization. The unjust financial crisis that the organization has been suffering from has strongly stricken the staff and the organization as a whole and allow me to send a message of support to all the UNHCR staff who have lost their jobs as a result of the situation. Colombia observes with deep concern the growing divide between the humanitarian needs and the available resources. We have been one of the main countries affected by the budgetary resources and we have been witnesses to the suspension of initiatives. The lack of resources has left many communities without appropriate access to basic services, medical care, and exposed to risks such as gender-based violence and food insecurity. The budgetary cuts have led to the suspension of humanitarian aid in critical areas, the suspension of protection programs for over 17,000 children who are at risk of recruitment, and the freezing of key initiatives such as the legalization of informal settlements and the regularization of 500,000 Venezuelans. Since January 25, we have seen a rising violence among non-state armed groups in our country. with restricted mobility that is affecting over 90,000 people. Against this backdrop, UNHCR had led humanitarian coordination in particular regions of our country, providing direct assistance to the affected communities. However, the magnitude of the crisis has exceeded the response capacity available, particularly due to the budgetary cuts. We note with concern the reduced budget planned for UNHCR for 2026. in a context where there remain important humanitarian challenges and protection for refugees, migrants and host communities in the country is limited. This fall in resources compromises the ability to continue with programs in vulnerable areas and limits a joint response capacity in the face of recruitment of minors and socio-economic issues. Against this backdrop, Colombia wishes to highlight three points. Firstly, we would issue a call to member states and traditional donors to redouble financial efforts. international solidarity cannot be selective or intermittent. Secondly, we support the exploration of new funds, of new sources of financing, including alliances with the private sector, results-based funding and broadened voluntary contributions. Thirdly, Progress in integration, documentation and access to rights must not be lost because of a lack of resources. Investment in lasting solutions is also vital to ensure regional stability. We must continue to urge donor governments and multilateral organizations to recognize and shoulder their responsibilities, which are shared, and to continue to fund the organization. The financial situation is presenting administrative complexities for everyone. and indeed many international cooperation agencies therefore the government of Colombia would stress the importance of optimizing the available resources favoring impact based initiatives and redoubling efforts among the UN agencies allow me to conclude saying that Colombia, as co-sponsor at the second Global Forum on Refugees, is firmly committed to the mid-term meeting to be held in December. Colombia will demonstrate its progress in the multi-stakeholder commitment that we have played an active role in. And we would also mention here the Cartagena +40 Action Plan, the presidency of the support platform for MEIPs, as well as the peace building and conflict prevention program. Inter alia, I cannot but conclude my statement by expressing our total solidarity with the tragedy facing the Palestinian refugees and displaced persons, as well as refugees as a result of all wars and conflicts across the world, for whom the UNHCR protection system is of vital importance. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:13:45]: I thank the distinguished representative of Colombia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ukraine, Excellency Ambassador Simbaliev. You have the floor. Ukraine · Ambassador [2:13:57]: Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. The delegation of Ukraine aligned itself with a statement of like-minded European states delivered by the delegation of Denmark. On this 75th anniversary of the UNHCR, we acknowledge its fundamental role in providing protection and assistance to forcibly displaced persons. With global forced displacement and humanitarian needs at record levels, its mandate has never been more important. In this regard, we stress the need for global solidarity and partnership to ensure that it can contribute to live up to its responsibilities. We are worried about detrimental funding cuts and dramatic reduction in workforce, operational footprint, and field programs that limit UNHCR's capacity to deliver. While recognizing that hard times demand hard choices, we emphasize the importance of maintaining UNHCR operations in regions with the greatest needs and focusing on the most vulnerable. Mr. Chairperson, Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine continues to be one of the main drivers of forced displacement globally. With a full-scale war in its fourth year, some 10 million Ukrainians remain displaced, including 5.7 million who have been seeking safety abroad. About 12.7 million Ukrainians are in need of humanitarian assistance. A surge in Russia's large-scale aerial attacks on peaceful Ukrainian cities and continued military escalation have worsened the humanitarian and displacement crisis, uprooting hundreds of thousands of people. The first half of 2025 saw an alarming 54% increase in civilian casualties from the Russian indiscriminate and deliberate strikes. With the cold season setting, of major concern is Russia's massive and systematic attacks against Ukrainian energy infrastructure, which aim at hampering access to essential services, making daily life unbearable, thus forcing more civilians to leave. Ukraine condemns in the strongest terms these serious IHL violations and war crimes. Perpetrators must be held accountable. The suffering of the Ukrainian people must stop. Regrettably, funding cuts have led to the reduction of UNHCR's activities in Ukraine in 2025. Even in this highly constrained environment, UNHCR has been able to reach hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians with lifesaving assistance and protection services, for which we are really very grateful. We call upon UNHCR to maintain its programs in Ukraine whenever it is possible, focusing on the most vulnerable groups of IDPs and returnees. We also urge donor community to provide funding to ensure the implementation of UNHCR response plans for Ukraine amid soaring humanitarian needs. We welcome the decision of the European Union to extend temporary protection for over 4 million displaced Ukrainians until March 2027. Continued hospitality and solidarity of the EU member states and other hosting countries towards displaced Ukrainians is very much appreciated. We emphasize that most Ukrainians who moved abroad want to return to their homes once the root cause of displacement is addressed, which is Russia's war of aggression. That said, we call upon all peace-loving nations to support diplomatic efforts towards achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine. The dire humanitarian situation and protection crisis in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine remain a source of serious concern. Ukrainians who refuse to obtain Russian citizenship under pressure have been declared foreigners and stateless persons, deprived of social payments and guarantees, and put at risk of deportation. We resolutely condemn forced imposition of Russian citizenship to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine in violation of international law. Unlawful decisions and actions of the Russian Federation will have no legal consequences for the citizens of Ukraine living under occupation. We urge the Russian Federation to comply with its obligation as occupying power and grant unimpeded and sustained access to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine for UNHCR and other humanitarian organizations to enable the effective implementation of the relevant UN resolutions and impartial humanitarian relief. Finally, despite the announcement that this is not a farewell meeting yet, the delegation of Ukraine would like to pay tribute to Mr. Filippo Grandi as he is about to complete his term as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees after 10 years of faithful service to humanity. High Commissioner, you have been a strong defender of displaced persons, tirelessly advocating for the rights and human dignity everywhere. for everyone, including millions of affected Ukrainians. We have fond memories of your visit to Ukraine, which allowed to shape timely, efficient, and at-scale response to the human tragedy on immense proportions. We are sincerely grateful for that and wish you the very best in the future. I thank you, Mr. Chairperson. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:19:29]: I thank Ambassador of Ukraine. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Czech Republic, His Excellency Ambassador Vaclav Balik. You have the floor, sir. Czechia · Ambassador [2:19:43]: Mr. Chairman, High Commissioner, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, the Czech Republic aligns itself with the statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of the like-minded European states. Mr. High Commissioner. Let me begin by expressing our sincere appreciation for your sobering yet forward-looking address. The unprecedented scale of displacement caused by a growing number of humanitarian emergencies is deeply concerning. Czechia echoes the concerns raised regarding the estimated 136 million forcibly displaced and stateless persons by 2026, an alarming figure that highlights the urgency of collective action. We are equally concerned about the increasing complexity of displacement, where refugees and migrants often move side by side. In this context, we commend the UNHCR's efforts to promote a whole-of-route approach, combining protection with responsibility sharing throughout the asylum process. We also appreciate the willingness of the UNHCR to collaborate with the EU and its member states on innovative solutions, such as regional processing mechanisms and return hubs. Enhanced cooperation with both states and organizations like the IOM are essential to managing displacement in a human, coordinated, and efficient manner. High Commissioner, we acknowledge the serious funding constraints you have outlined. At a time when the entire humanitarian system is facing significant financial pressure, the international community must act decisively. We therefore welcome your emphasis on prioritization and sustainable programming. The Czech Republic places particular emphasis on strengthening the humanitarian-development-peace nexus and on a deeper and systematic engagement with local actors, including their meaningful participation in the decision-making processes. Furthermore, we believe that addressing structural fragility should be a central pillar of humanitarian policy, not only as a basis for prevention, but as a guiding principle for a long-term sustainable response. For more than three and a half years, Ukraine is bearing the devastating consequences of Russia's unprovoked and unjustified aggression. Czechia has offered refuge to almost one million displaced Ukrainians, currently hosting around 400,000 under temporary protection. In close partnership with civil society and local authorities, we have integrated them into our healthcare, education and labour systems. Today, they are contributing meaningfully to our economy and society, a temporary asset to our country. Their resilience continues to inspire us. And while many found safety in Czechia, we recognize that their hope is to return home as soon as conditions permit, as my colleague, Ambassador of Ukraine, just mentioned. We remain committed to supporting their dignity and long-term aspirations. At the same time, the Czech Republic remains acutely aware of other refugee crises around the world. In line with our European and international commitments, we continue to respond to global displacement needs. Over the past decade, we have contributed 25 million euros to the UNHCR operations in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. We also deeply value the solidarity shown by low and middle income host countries whose generosity must not be overlooked. They deserve our continued recognition and support. This year, my country has contributed 2 million euros to the UNHCR's operations in Mauritania and Syria, and we intend to support additional operations before the end of the year, especially the Chad operation with focus on Sudanese refugees. Importantly, our assistance not only supports refugees, but also places strong emphasis on strengthening host communities. Mr. High Commissioner, as you conclude your tenure, we express our deepest gratitude for 10 years of principled leadership. We also commend the dedication of UNHCR teams in the field, often working under difficult and dangerous conditions. Your work is indispensable to the lives of millions around the world. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:24:36]: I thank the Ambassador of the Czech Republic. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of New Zealand. New Zealand [2:24:47]: Thank you, Chair. New Zealand is grateful to High Commissioner Grandi and UNHCR for their tireless efforts to provide crucial humanitarian assistance, protection, and durable solutions for displaced persons worldwide, essential work that UNHCR is uniquely placed to do. New Zealand remains committed to our partnership with UNHCR in collaboration with the global community to uphold the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced populations. UNHCR and the wider humanitarian sector continue to face unprecedented challenges, with crises growing in scale and complexity, and needs far exceeding available resources. One in every 67 people is now forcibly displaced, nearly double the rate of a decade ago, with children making up 40% of those displaced. Overlapping crises from climate to food insecurity are compounding needs and straining response capacity with long-term consequences. We are gravely concerned by the surge in forced displacement due to armed conflict. New Zealand continues to condemn unequivocally Russia's illegal and unprovoked attack on Ukraine, which has caused immense suffering and significant displacement within Ukraine and to neighboring countries. The conflict in the Middle East continues to have a catastrophic impact on civilians in Gaza, with implications for the wider region. New Zealand is also deeply concerned by the humanitarian situation in Sudan, the world's largest displacement crisis, with over 14 million Sudanese people displaced. New Zealand recognises the vital role of UNHCR in the Asia-Pacific. In Myanmar, over 3.5 million people are internally displaced and more than 1.5 million have fled to neighboring countries. In Afghanistan, decades of instability, now compounded by the recent devastating earthquake, have left millions displaced. UNHCR's operational leadership is essential in delivering life-saving assistance, supporting host communities, and advancing durable solutions. New Zealand is deeply concerned by rising attacks on humanitarian personnel and increasing instances of disregard for international humanitarian law. We confirm our strong support for efforts to protect humanitarian personnel, and we commend Australia's leadership in advancing renewed international commitment through its declaration for the protection of humanitarian personnel. We call on all parties to respect international humanitarian law. New Zealand notes with concern the scale of underfunding faced by UNHCR this year. This underlines the need for flexible and predictable funding. New Zealand has consistently provided multi-year, unearmarked funding to UNHCR to ensure lifesaving aid can continue to reach the most vulnerable. Over the past year, we have also made further contributions to UNHCR's humanitarian protection and assistance programs for Sudanese and Ukrainian refugees and returnees, as well as supporting host communities. New Zealand acknowledges that UNHCR has undertaken its organizational review under extremely challenging circumstances. We welcome the focus on prioritization of its core work and its efforts to reinforce accountability during this period of transition. We also recognize UNHCR's contribution to the Humanitarian Reset and UNHCR initiative. We encourage continued engagement with local actors, including women-led organizations, and a strong emphasis on gender and disability inclusion. New Zealand remains committed to collaborate with UNHCR, host countries, and the broader international community in the resettlement of refugees. Our longstanding refugee quota programme and complementary pathways, and our efforts to help refugees settle successfully, demonstrate that commitment. Earlier this year, New Zealand renewed its commitment to resettle 1,500 refugees annually through to 2029, and to provide increased flexibility to respond to UNHCR priorities. Under the Community Organisation Refugee Sponsorship Pilot, 201 refugees have been approved to come to New Zealand, supported by 25 community sponsor groups. New Zealand reaffirms our commitment to fully implementing our Global Refugee Forum pledges. including meaningful refugee participation, employment and self-sufficiency, and inclusion in health systems. We are also working to strengthen protection and solutions capacity across the Asia-Pacific and to bolster the issuance and acceptance of refugee travel documents globally. In closing, New Zealand commends you, High Commissioner, and the work of your staff throughout the world for your service to the world's refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced and other persons of concern. As this marks your final Executive Committee meeting following nearly 10 years of distinguished leadership at UNHCR, we extend our deepest appreciation to you, High Commissioner, for your unwavering commitment and principled service. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:30:35]: I thank the Ambassador of New Zealand and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Montenegro. Montenegro [2:30:44]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Montenegro aligns with the statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of like-minded European states. High Commissioner Grandi, let me begin by thanking you for your sobering and powerful statement on the unprecedented scale of forced displacement and the growing need for international protection. We are witnessing an immense human suffering that demands our collective resolve. Escalating conflicts, multifaceted emergencies, and interlinked political, economic, and security crises continue to uproot millions across the globe. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, now entering its fourth year, the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and ongoing crisis in Sudan, Myanmar, Afghanistan, to name only a few, have driven millions from their homes, often with no safe place to return to. In the face of such complexity, international cooperation and respect for international law are not optional, they are essential. We must protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. We must ensure accountability for violations of international law. And we must guarantee access to affected populations and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid. Without these fundamentals, conflicts will only grow more deadly, destabilizing, and dehumanizing. Mr. Chair, the already dire situation is exacerbated by the deepening funding crisis across the humanitarian system. UNHCR's sharp funding cut in 2025 has constrained the organization's ability to deliver on its core mandate, pushing for difficult adjustments and a significant downscaling of its operations and presence worldwide, including in Montenegro. This has placed additional pressure on refugees, asylum systems, and already overstretched host communities. Against this backdrop, we welcome UNHCR's commitment to efficiency, innovation, and reform, and its engagement in the UNAT and humanitarian reset processes. We encourage its continued alignment with the broad UN system-wide reforms. High Commissioner, we commend your steadfast leadership in steering UNCR through some of the most challenging years in its history. We pay tribute to UNCR staff and partners who, despite insecurity and limited means, continue to reach those most in need. Their dedication reflects the true spirit of UNHCR mandate. It is therefore crucial to safeguard UNHCR's capacity to deliver life-saving protection and assistance and to pursue the durable solution for persons in need worldwide. Mr. Chair, as a future member of the European Union and a signatory to key international refugee and human rights instruments, Montenegro remains firmly committed to a strong and effective international protection system. We have strengthened our asylum framework in line with the Common European Asylum System and with 1951 Convention and its 1967 Protocol, fully upholding the right to seek and enjoy asylum, including the principle of non-refoulement. Our ongoing efforts focus on enhancing infrastructure, improving reception conditions and expanding integration opportunities, including through family reunification and enhanced access to the labour market. The implementation of the new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum is of particular importance in that regard. At the same time, securing sustainable financing for these efforts remains a pressing challenge. This year also marks the first anniversary of the Global Alliance to End Statelessness, and Montenegro proudly reaffirms its commitment. We have established procedures to ensure that every child born on our territory is registered, regardless of the parents' documentation status, and we have introduced procedures for determining the status of stateless persons. Pending amendments to our law on foreigners, endorsed by the European Commission, will further strengthen the rights of stateless persons, particularly regarding access to socioeconomic rights, healthcare, education, and documents. Overall, Montenegro has made steady progress in building and strengthening asylum and protection systems, both in the legal framework and in practical implementation. However, challenges related to infrastructure, accommodation capacity, and financial sustainability call for continuing investment and long-term planning. By aligning our legislation and practice with European standards and by faithfully implementing our international obligations, Montenegro reaffirms its commitment to the global refugee protection regime and to the principles of the Global Compact on Refugees. Mr. Chair, Montenegro stands ready to continue contributing in solidarity and partnership to uphold the principles of international protection and share responsibility for those forced to flee. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:35:37]: I thank Excellency Ambassador of Montenegro. And we come to the-- yes, yes, yes. We come to the final speaker in our list. It is the distinguished representative of Guatemala. Guatemala [2:36:06]: Thank you very much, Chairman. High Commissioner, being part of the delegation supporting the Brazilian statement on behalf of GRULAC, the delegation of Guatemala also would like to welcome the presentation of the report from the High Commissioner. It underlines the challenges of forced displacement and the challenges posed to the asylum systems and to host countries. For the Government of Guatemala, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, UNHCR, is a key strategic partner. This partnership has helped build a relationship of trust and empathy, as reflected in the constant strengthening of the Guatemalan institutions competent in the field of refugees and human mobility. Cooperation between the Guatemalan institutions, headed up by the foreign ministry, with HCR has helped with the implementation and the positioning of the theme of refugees and international protection on the national agenda. This coordination has supported delivery on regional and international commitments for the benefit of refugees and for host communities. This includes the Global Compact on Refugees, the Comprehensive Regional Framework for Protection and Solutions, MRRPs, and Cartagena Plus 40, among others. The State of Guatemala, as a member of the ExCom and a signatory of the 1951 Convention on the Status of Refugees and its Protocol of 1967, expresses its concern at dwindling resources, which directly impact comprehensive implementation of actions for protection and solutions for refugees, asylum seekers and those seeking international protection in our continent. We call for greater international cooperation from the perspective of humanity and shared responsibility to continue working jointly and in a coordinated fashion to bolster actions and policies for the benefit of refugee populations and those needing international protection. Guatemala joins others in commending the humanitarian legacy that Mr. Grandi has left during his almost 10 years in charge. Here, we recognise his human warmth and his genuine interest to learn first hand about the reality and best practices developed in our country. We were honoured to be visited by the commissioner in 2019, during our chairmanship of the MIRPS, and once more in 2023, when the country hosted a regional mechanism on migration and protection. On both occasions, we witnessed Mr. Grande's commitment, humanity and responsibility at the head of the HCR. Finally, Guatemala reiterates its support, as a member State party of the ExCom, to continue consolidating actions in the field of international protection and in finding lasting solutions for refugees in the context of mobility and for their families. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:39:54]: I thank the distinguished representative of Guatemala. And last but not least, I now give the floor to the High Commissioner to give us his reactions. UNHCR · High Commissioner [2:40:11]: Thank you very much, Ambassador. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will start with Australia. and want to underline, as was mentioned in the statement, the key role that, underline and commend the key role that Australia has played in the launching of the Declaration on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel. Like I said before, I was privileged to be part of the ceremony in New York during the General Assembly High Level Week, which launched this important initiative, and I am well aware of the leading role that Australia has played in preparing this document. You mentioned that 100 countries have now subscribed or 100 entities have subscribed to this initiative. I think it's very important in a year in which so many humanitarian workers have been killed in a record year, in fact. I also want to thank all those that have mentioned this in their statements. Of course, the organization that has suffered most losses is UNRWA, my former organization. I want to also say that here today. but many others, including NGOs, have suffered losses. So thank you. Sorry to expand a bit on this, but I think it's a very important initiative. And thank you for being a very strong and consistent donor partner in many parts of the world, of course, including flexible funding. But especially in certain crisis situations in Asia, and especially Bangladesh, Myanmar. I was there recently, as you know. Actually, I visited both countries this year, Myanmar very recently, and I could see the growing, in fact, Australia's support, especially for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, is something that is important. You mentioned in your statement the importance of the partnership with the World Bank, And I want to take that opportunity to thank all those of you, donors or host countries, who are members of the boards of international financial institutions, the World Bank, but others, please continue to support the attention given by these institutions, World Bank in particular, to situations of displacement. It's very important because in the end, it's you, the board members, who make decisions for these institutions, and it's important to keep them focused. So thank you for mentioning that and for being accompanied by a refugee advisor, third country today after Germany and Canada. Thank you very much also to the advisor for the important statement focusing on refugees belonging to the LGBTQI community and the attention that they deserve. And to stay in the same region, I want to flag that New Zealand also highlighted some of the crises that too often are a little bit neglected, the Myanmar crisis, the Afghanistan crisis. Again, I was in both countries this year, and I could see that being very fragile situations, being countries partly or entirely under the control of non-recognized, non-state actors, one could say. This gives rise to very fragile situations which necessitate humanitarian assistance, but the political context makes this assistance very difficult. So these are dilemmas that we're facing, and thank you for highlighting these crises and the attention that they deserve. New Zealand also, we should underline, remains a strong resettlement country, 1,500 a year as was reported. And very well, very good that you have now a growing community sponsorship program built into your resettlement system. I am a big fan of these programs. Canada has always been a champion, New Zealand as well now, because they create a lot of awareness also in the community of refugee issues. So they're very positive um um Le Morocco um. Morocco Moroccan statement Mr. Ambassador you spoke of the importance of maintaining the depoliticized character of refugee protection that's I agree but sometimes it's difficult but we must do our utmost together to uphold that principle I'd also like to take due note of the references that you made, you shared with us in our statement regarding the position of the Security Council and reiterate what I said yesterday in my opening statement. I don't say, I say military, I mean preliminary, not military, says the speaker. I want to reiterate the importance, the urgency of reaching a political solution to that situation fast. That situation has gone on for far too long, like you said. You agree regarding the urgency of a political settlement, and I want to reiterate it here again. On our part, we will stay committed not just in providing humanitarian assistance to Sahrawi refugees, but we will remain watchful with all those concerned to maintain the civilian nature of those camps. Colombia is a country, as you said in your statement, was one of the organizers of the Global Forum, and I want to thank them for that important role that they played, that they played since 2023, the second Global Forum. And Colombia's recognition, yes, in my statement at the opening of the ExCo, that recognition was very sincere, because my experience of cooperation with successive Colombian governments on themes of asylum, temporary protection, access to inclusion, that experience has been very special, very positive. Not only, as you said, Colombia is now a host country, but also a model host country, a model in terms of giving innovative responses, which unfortunately now, have been hit by the financial cuts. And as I said yesterday, those innovations are investments that merit, deserve to be continued and deserve to receive international support. I'm also pleased that Mexico, like many other countries, expressed its support for the international protection system. That's important for us at HCR. It's important to hear from that support, repeated support. And Mexico was very forthright in stating its support for the international protection system and generally for multilateralism in the context of asylum and international protection. I myself have seen tangible examples of that commitment during my last visit to Mexico this year. Unfortunately, again, like in Colombia, Mexico's work has been very much hit by the cuts. The work that's been done there has been hit by the cuts, but again, I do welcome the fact that Mexico is maintaining its commitment to continuing that work in hosting, in inclusion, in the search for solutions, and thank you also to Mexico for increasing their contribution to HCR, which was mentioned in their statement. I repeat, in the case of Guatemala, the words that the government of Guatemala extended to HCR and to say that for us too, Guatemala is truly a strategic partner with which we have relations of trust and empathy. And I quite agree, relations also via the MIRPS forum, a forum which has made great strides in recent years. In my two visits to Guatemala, and I think there was one other visit prior to that, I witnessed the excellent co-operation between HCR and Guatemala, and I am very pleased about that. Thank you for your very positive statement. we have to remember that Turkey is one of the largest hosting countries in the world and a very strong ally of UNHCR. My first field visit in 2016 was to Turkey. At that time, of course, there were still refugee camps where Syrian refugees were present. Turkey subsequently, through an inclusion policy, dismantled the camps, allowed access to employment, and made many important progresses in areas that now we call sustainable responses. But what is very remarkable, and was also mentioned in the statement, is that now the focus is also on return. And in my two visits to Turkey, especially my first one this year, I could see, I could actually witness some of the convoys bringing people back to Syria and really very well organized. So thank you very much for leading not only in the welcoming of refugees, but also in the organization of voluntary return in the respect of international norms. You have and you will continue to have our full support. Estonia and others, but let me single them out one by one, has been a generous host of Ukrainian refugees. I saw it myself in my visit to Estonia last year, and I want to commend the very steadfast support that is offered with very innovative practices. Thank you for announcing that you have made an early contribution to UNHCR for 2026. Please, everybody take note, follow suit. We need that very early because otherwise we'll start 2026 with no money. It's a very high risk at the moment, given the financial situation. And I also agree with Estonia's statement that the implementation of the, European Union Pact on Migration and Asylum is now extremely important and a priority for all countries in Europe. We will, we've been part of the preparation of the pact, contributed, we want, we are available to continue to support states in its implementation when it will begin. Austria also is an important country hosting Ukrainian refugees, actually very high number. And it's always very remarkable how Austria continues to remain one of the countries with the highest number of asylum requests every year. So an important responsibility that you continue to fulfill in a very good manner, and we continue to support you with that. Thank you also, and I know that from experience, from you hosting another important headquarters of the United Nations. Your very strong multilateral vocation is very clear and it was expressed in the statement and I want to commend it. And I want to thank Portugal for having reminded us. Sometimes we don't repeat that enough. that refugees and migrants are people on the move, are especially people, not numbers. In our statistics, in our political discussion, in our policy discussion, sometimes we overlook that. So it's always good that some countries remind us of that important fact. It gives meaning to the word protection, that is a word mentioned in every single statement in this room, including ours. And of course, I've been to Portugal. I've seen your refugee policies, which were explained in the statement, and they correspond to that notion and attitude. It's also important that you mentioned climate impact. That also maybe this year is not mentioned enough. And yet, climate, climate change, climate phenomena continue to be an important contributor to population movements. And may I say, sometimes, almost a consequence in the sense that big population movements impact the environment, impact nature, and have adverse effect in that sense. So we need to continue to be very vigilant of these dimensions of the relationship between population movements and climate. And thank you for mentioning that. It's very important. I also remember very fondly, as was mentioned by the Ambassador, my many, I've actually lost count of how many times I've been to Ukraine, but certainly seven or eight. And those visits were very dramatic because I always insisted on visiting war-affected areas. And I have seen personally many times the devastating impact of conflict on civilians and civilian infrastructure. I share the concern of Ukraine and many of you for the escalation in civilian casualties that we have witnessed this year. And with winter approaching and more people being displaced and sometimes deprived of shelter, it is important not to lose sight of humanitarian assistance. lamented, Ambassador, that there's been some decrease. We're trying to minimize the decrease, the budgetary decrease in Ukraine. Fortunately, we have quite a number of donors wanting to maintain our, uh, work. We are one of the largest humanitarian agencies in the country, and, uh, we want to continue to do that. fully, fully agreeing at the same time that it is important to keep in mind that most people want to return and we need to be prepared for that, for that when finally a just peace will be achieved, which is the wish of us all for sure. The Czech Republic also is a big host, in fact, of Ukrainian refugees, one of the biggest. I visited myself not this year, but a couple of years back. Very good practices and policies of taking care of Ukrainian refugees. I am very happy that the Czech Republic continues to grow its role also of a donor in other parts of the world, not just in Ukraine and in Europe, but also beyond. I think Czech Republic can play a very important role in that respect. And good, I heard, if I heard correctly, that there will be some more contributions before the end of the year. Very, very much needed. Remember my appeal of yesterday, we need $300 million. In specific situation, on your mark, better if flexible, but any contribution will be most welcome. I want to quote, I like to take some quotes from some declarations, statements. The way Montenegro described the current conflicts with three Ds, I think, is very interesting: deadly, destabilizing, and dehumanizing. I couldn't think of a better description of, unfortunately, of modern conflict. And I also was struck by the fact that Montenegro spoke about its own commitments, growing commitments to refugee protection that are deployed as part of its EU membership process. This is very important and very positive that among the many things that countries have to do to adhere to become members of the EU, there has to be an effort to raise the standards of refugee protection. So thank you for mentioning that and for mentioning your efforts to reduce statelessness. Yeah, I think I finished. I see. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:58:52]: Thank you, High Commissioner. I really appreciate that. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I will now suspend the list of speakers until tomorrow morning, when we will resume at 10:00 a.m. Before adjourning the meeting, I would like to give the floor to the Secretary for an announcement. Ms. Kjaer, you have the floor. UNHCR ExCom · Secretary [2:59:17]: Thank you, Chairperson. Good evening, distinguished delegates. I wish to inform you that a side event towards the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review, Turning Pledges into Impact, will take place tomorrow in Room 5 at 8:30 a.m. Thank you. UNHCR ExCom · Vice-Chair [2:59:34]: Thank you, Ms. Kher. This brings the fourth meeting of the 76th plenary session of the Executive Committee to an end, so the meeting is adjourned. Thank you.