4th Meeting, 77th Session of UNHCR Executive Committee

Excellencies, High Commissioner, distinguished delegates, dear colleagues, I hereby call the fourth meeting of the 77th Plenary Session of the ExCom to order. So if you can all find your seats and direct your attention in this way, please. Before we start, let me make a point again on the timekeeping in this meeting and just remind ourselves what we have agreed, that we that we have a strict time management in our deliberations and that we have agreed a maximum of five minutes for each statement. I commend everyone who has so far been adhering to that fine practice, and I encourage us to continue in that way, because we still have a long list of speakers ahead of us. It is in the common interest of all of us that we stick to the five-minute rule. So, in continuation of the speakers list, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of New Zealand. Ambassador, you have the floor.

I welcome you, High Commissioner, to your first Executive Committee meeting. At a time of near-record displacement and significant pressures on the humanitarian system, New Zealand remains a committed partner of UNHCR and stands ready to support your leadership in strengthening protection, advancing durable solutions, and reinforcing international responsibility sharing. New Zealand reaffirms its strong support for UNHCR and its vital mandate to protect and assist refugees, stateless persons, internally displaced persons, and other forcibly displaced people around the world. As we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention, we reaffirm our commitment to the international refugee protection regime and the principles that underpin it. At a time of unprecedented displacement and growing protection challenges, the Convention remains as relevant and as important as ever. New Zealand remains concerned by the severe funding pressures facing UNHCR. We acknowledge UNHCR's efforts to adapt to an increasingly constrained funding environment while maintaining focus on its core protection mandate. We support continued efforts to strengthen effectiveness, accountability, efficiency and prioritisation. and recognize UNHCR's contribution to the Humanitarian Reset and UNH initiative. We encourage continued partnerships with local actors, including the focus on women and girls and persons with disabilities. We also underscore the continued importance of strong governance, oversight, and safeguards against sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, fraud, corruption, and other misconduct. For New Zealand, the Asia-Pacific remains a priority. We remain deeply concerned by the situation in Myanmar, where conflict continues to drive displacement on a significant scale. By August this year, 3.9 million people were internally displaced, while 1.6 million had sought international protection across the region. We are also concerned by the ongoing humanitarian and protection challenges facing Afghanistan, where millions remain displaced and in need of assistance. Across the region, UNHCR's operational leadership is essential in delivering life-saving assistance, supporting host communities, and advancing durable solutions. New Zealand continues to provide multi-year and unearmarked contributions that enable UNHCR to direct resources where needs are greatest. We support efforts to strengthen international responsibility sharing and welcome the High Commissioner's 50 by 35 vision. Domestically, New Zealand remains committed to refugee resettlement and complementary pathways. Our refugee quota programme will continue to resettle refugees with priority protection needs, complemented by community sponsorship and family reunification pathways. These programmes reflect our enduring commitment to providing durable solutions, international solidarity, and supporting successful integration. As Chair of the Priority Situations Core Group, New Zealand is working closely with UNHCR and partners to help ensure limited resettlement opportunities are directed to those most in need. We are proud to continue our leadership of the PSCG next year and to strengthen international responsibility sharing as we build momentum towards the next Global Refugee Forum. New Zealand remains committed to delivering on our Global Refugee Forum pledges, including strengthening refugee participation, self-reliance and protection, and solutions across the Asia-Pacific. As we look ahead to the Forum at the end of next year, we remain focused on translating commitments into practical outcomes and advancing implementation of the Global Compact on Refugees. Finally, New Zealand pays tribute to the dedication and professionalism of UNHCR staff and humanitarian personnel working in often difficult and dangerous environments. We call on all parties to uphold international humanitarian law, protect humanitarian personnel, and ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access. New Zealand remains committed to working constructively with the High Commissioner, UNHCR, ExCom members and partners to support a strong, effective and accountable organization capable of delivering on its core protection mandate. Thank you.

Thank you very much, New Zealand. I now pass the floor to the distinguished representative of Ukraine, to be followed by Kuwait. Ukraine, sir, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chairman, Mr. High Commissioner, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. We meet in a difficult moment for the global humanitarian system. Needs continue to grow while resources are becoming more constrained. This creates a challenge larger than funding alone. How do we continue protecting people in immediate danger while building sustainable solutions for them going forward? Ukraine is living this challenge every day. Russia's war of aggression continues to force people from their homes. In recent months, intensified air attacks have targeted energy infrastructure, residential areas, shopping centers, food production and logistic facilities, passenger trains and bridges. all the things ordinary civilian life depends on. Humanitarian operations themselves are also under threat. United Nations warehouses and humanitarian convoys have come under Russian attack. In July and August alone, OCHA recorded 86 humanitarian access incidents, including Russian drone and missile attack, the highest number since monitoring began in 2022. This attack disturbs basic services, drives through the displacement, and makes humanitarian response more difficult and dangerous. When such violation go unpunished, it is not only one country that suffers. International humanitarian law must be respected. Civilian infrastructure and humanitarian personnel must be protected. Against this background, I want to recognize UNHCR's essential work in Ukraine. Here, protection and legal assistance, support for evacuation, emergency accommodation, housing, and winter assistance make a direct difference to people facing the consequences of this war. And as we approach winter, sustaining this response is critical. We call on donors to maintain predictable and flexible humanitarian funding with special attention to winter support, frontline communities, and people forced to evacuate. From the government side, we are working to make this support more effective. Our humanitarian and resilient account is one practical instrument. It allows international assistance to use national register verification and payment infrastructure. This helps deliver targeted support faster with less duplication and greater accountability. Humanitarian funding can do two jobs at once, meet an urgent need today and strengthen the system that will respond to the next shock tomorrow. But we also need to look beyond immediate humanitarian response. After years of large-scale displacement, we have learned that parallel systems for displaced people cannot be the long-term answer. If one set of services and infrastructure is created for IDPs, another for local residents, and eventually another for returnees, we fragment scarce resources. We also risk increasing competition and tension between people. This is why social cohesion must be part of how we think about durable solutions. We need to invest in common infrastructure, housing solutions, social services, and local capacity that serve people according to need. Our new strategy on internal displacement till 2030, developed with UNHCR support, follows this approach and builds a continuous pathway from evacuation to stabilization to integration in communities or voluntary return where conditions allow. Finally, I want to speak about Ukrainians who have found protection abroad. We are deeply grateful to EU member states and all countries hosting our people, including for the extension of temporary protection. Yet we should not lose sign of something fundamental. Millions of Ukrainians who fled the war have not lost their connection to Ukraine. For many, return home remains an important hope and aspiration. They left because their safety was threatened, not because they stopped seeing Ukraine as their home. Our responsibility is to preserve that connection and turn the possibility of return into a realistic choice. This means continuing protection for as long as it's needed, but it also means preparing Ukraine for return, investing in housing, restoring essential services, supporting jobs, and rebuilding communities where people can live and raise their families. And this is where international partnership remains For Ukraine, their ultimate goal is not simply to manage displacement. It is to make it possible for people to rebuild their lives at home. Thank you.

Thank you very much. I now pass the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait, to be followed by Hungary. Kuwait, sir, you have the floor.

Thank you, sir, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. I would like to first express our appreciation to UNHCR. We hail the UNHCR's vital role. This allows it to help and protect refugees and those who are forcibly displaced. I'd also like to avail myself of this opportunity to thank Mr. Saleh. Thank you for your sincere efforts Since taking on your functions, we wish you the greatest of success in the work of the High Commissioner's Office and the service of your noble message, which seeks to preserve the dignity of refugees and to find lasting solutions to the current situations. Humanitarian challenges should call upon us to honor our responsibilities, our collective responsibilities, and to find an international response that is up to the scope of the suffering. Our region has suffered attacks that threaten security, sovereignty, and stability in our states, attacking vital infrastructure, bringing victims and material and economic damage. We call for the attacks on international shipping lanes to be considered a violation of international law of the UN Charter and a source of concern with economic security, humanitarian outcomes that go beyond the region. The impact is not merely the direct impact, but it undermines energy security, supply chains, international trade, and it worsens the humanitarian situation. It increases the suffering of the population, undermining humanitarian and development action. We wish to show solidarity to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the wake of the attacks perpetrated by the Houthi militias in a flagrant violation of international law. and the principle of respect for the sovereignty of states and their territorial integrity. We must step up international and regional efforts to de-escalate this and to protect civilians and to deliver humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable, while respecting the sovereignty of states, their territorial integrity, international law, the shipping lanes, and as well, I would say that the State of Kuwait believes that the settlement of this crisis does not seem to come with an escalation in any sort of force, but rather through dialogue, diplomatic efforts to establish security and to allow peace and security to take root. We are concerned over the politicization of humanitarian action and its use in conflicts. We refuse any attacks that target humanitarian workers and that hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid to including Gaza, the Golan Heights, and in Yemen, or the West Bank, that is. We support the Palestinian people in Gaza, and we reject the settlement practices, and we call for respect for international respect for international law, international humanitarian law, and the delivery of -- unhindered delivery of humanitarian support. refugees and the displaced are a priority for the state of Kuwait, which has always ensured that we extend a hand to those in need. Our humanitarian aid is a reflection of this. Over the past 10 years, we have over $460 million. This clearly is a reflection of our commitment to the work of UNHCR and the humanitarian needs that we see around the world urgently. We hail the efforts of the UNHCR to provide urgent humanitarian response and to help there to be lasting solutions and autonomy that follows the ambitious strategy launched by UNHCR is an important step when it comes to limiting prolonged displacement, allowing refugees to have access to employment, education, and basic services, allowing for them to contribute to the building of their communities, of their host communities. Digital transformation at the service of refugees is also an important measure when it comes to supporting their autonomy, the anniversary of the Convention on Refugee Status. This is an opportunity to express our collective support for refugees and the promotion of their rights, and to ensure as well the security and protection of these individuals. The best response to the situation comes with the settlement of conflicts, conflict resolution, and addressing the root causes of them through diplomatic action to favor peace. This is the best response to displacement. And lasting solutions should include a voluntary return with a respect for international law and the principle of non-refoulement. We would like to express our full support to UNHCR. We are willing to continue to deploy efforts with international partners to support the displaced and refugees and to support states and host communities to help foster lasting solutions. We are committed to bringing and supporting dignity for humanity as well as the protection of humanity. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Kuwait. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Hungary, to be followed by Sierra Leone. And I remind everyone of the five-minute speaking time. Hungary, please, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair, High Commissioner, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Hungary aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union. Allow me to add a few remarks in my national capacity. This year holds a special significance for Hungary and the international refugee protection system. 70 years ago, following the Hungarian Revolution and freedom fight of 1956, nearly 200,000 Hungarians were forced to flee their homeland. Their displacement became one of the first major tests of the international refugee protection system. Austria and Yugoslavia opened their borders. 37 countries eventually welcomed Hungarian refugees, and UNHCR helped thousands of our compatriots rebuild their lives. For Hungary, refugee protection is therefore not merely an international obligation. It's part of our national history, a collective memory. The events of 1956 remind us that international solidarity, can transform human lives and offer hope even in the darkest circumstances. Mr. Chair, today the international refugee protection system faces enormous challenges. Protected conflicts, growing communitarian needs, and increasingly limited resources place unprecedented pressure on refugees, host countries, and humanitarian organizations. These challenges call for renewed cooperation, practical solidarity, and a shared determination to make our collective efforts more effective. Hungary remains committed to the principles of the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. We firmly believe that solidarity and responsibility must go hand in hand. An effective refugee protection system must be both human and credible. must protect those fleeing persecution and armed conflict, while recognizing the legitimate responsibility of states to manage their borders and maintain public security. These objectives shouldn't be seen as competing priorities, but as mutually reinforcing elements of a sustainable international protection system. Hungary believes that international cooperation in refugee protection should be guided by practical solidarity, respect for national circumstances, and the voluntary nature of international contributions. Our common objective should be to achieve tangible results for those in need of protection by recognizing the different capacities and responsibilities of individual, uh, countries, our response. to the humanitarian consequences of the war in Ukraine demonstrates Hungary's commitments to these principles. Since the beginning of the war, Hungary has provided protection and assistance to those fleeing Ukraine, working closely with international organizations, civil society, and local communities. Today, approximately 51,000 people in Hungary hold active temporary protection status. We highly appreciate UNHCR support and the close professional cooperation developed between Hungary and the Office. Mr. Chair, looking ahead, we must place greater emphasis on durable solutions. For many refugees, returning home remains their deepest aspiration. Where conditions permit, safe, voluntary, and dignified return should be supported by international efforts to restore security, rebuild institutions, and create sustainable livelihood. At the same time, we must recognize the extraordinary contribution of countries of first asylum and host communities. Supporting them through humanitarian assistance, development cooperation, and capacity building is both an expression of solidarity and an investment in long-term stability. Hungary believes that providing assistance as close as possible to where crises occur can strengthen local resilience and contribute to sustainable solutions. Our humanitarian engagement, including through the Hunger Helps program, reflects this approach. The current financial challenges facing UNHCR also underline the importance of efficiency, transparency, and accountability. We welcome the High Commissioner's efforts to strengthen UNHCR's operational effectiveness while preserving its essential protection mandate. Hungary is proud to host UNHCR Regional Bureau for Europe and its Global Service Center in Budapest. We remain committed to supporting this partnership and contributing constructively to ongoing reform efforts. Mr. Chair, 70 years ago, the international community extended a helping hand to Hungarians forced to flee their homeland. That solidarity reminds us that refugee protection is not only about responding to crisis. It's also about preserving hope, human dignity, and the possibility of a better future. Today, we share a responsibility to preserve a refugee protection system that remains human and credible, compassionate and sustainable, and built on solidarity as well as responsibility. Hungary stands ready to contribute to this common endeavour through dialogue, partnership and concrete cooperation. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you very much, Hungary. I now pass the floor to the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone, to be followed by Senegal. Sierra Leone, sir, you have the floor.

Mr. Chairperson, Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of Sierra Leone, I align our delegation with the statements delivered by African Group and ECOWAS. We commend UNHCR for its continued commitment to refugee protection and durable solutions. Under the leadership of His Excellency, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone remains steadfast in fulfilling its core responsibilities toward addressing its refugee caseload, strengthening national protection systems, and supporting refugee hosting communities. As we review our Global Refugee Forum commitments, we highlight our ongoing progress and national ownership in tackling these challenges. Sierra Leone appreciates ECOWAS' continued support in promoting regional solidarity, Through NACSA, we are actively strengthening our national capacity for refugee status determination, RSD, and fulfilling our institutional mandate to assess protection requests in accordance with applicable laws and principles of non-refoulement. Sierra Leone has adopted a national action plan to combat statelessness and collaborated with ECOWAS to provide unconditional cash transfers to 1,050 vulnerable individuals to support access to national identity documentation. To address remaining administrative hurdles, the government is taking direct responsibility for finalizing internal frameworks with National Civil Registration Authority, NCRA, and mobilizing domestic and institutional resources to ensure all vulnerable populations secure necessary civil documentations. Through the World Bank-supported productive social safety net and youth employment projects and community-driven development initiatives, Syria is proactively advancing economic inclusion and resilience among vulnerable populations and refugee-hosting communities. To bridge current programmatic gaps and foster sustainable self-reliance, the government is directing targeted livelihood support and economic inclusion financing to reduce long-term dependence on humanitarian assistance through the Tenke Saloon Initiative, Sierra Leone advancing 93 development projects across 19 host communities with approximately 12 sub-projects completed. We encourage UNHCR to collaborate closely with NACSA, the government of Sierra Leone, UNDP, ECOWAS, and ICMPD to leverage shared technical strengths in achieving these objectives. The dignified reintegration of returning citizens, the sustainable resolution of our residual refugee caseload, and adequate support for host communities are anchored in strong national governance and predictable institutional collaboration. We also urge UNHCR to work with NACSA, the Government of Sweden, UNDP, ECOWAS, and ICMPD to effectively achieve these objectives. In conclusion, Mr. Chairperson, Excellencies, Sierra Leone reaffirms its sovereign commitment to refugee protection, regional cooperation, and the principle of "no refugee for more." We call on UNHCR, donor states, and development partners to translate shared commitment into practical action through sustained collaboration, technical alignment, and investment in durable solutions. Together, we can build a sustainable future for refugees, returning citizens, and communities. I thank you, Mr. Commissioner.

Thank you very much, Sierra Leone. I now pass the floor to the distinguished representative of Senegal, to be followed by Lithuania. Senegal, please, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, President. First and foremost, my delegation wishes to address to you and the other members of the Bureau our congratulations and to assure you of our support in the successful completion of our work. Senegal fully aligns itself with the statement made by Pakistan and by the Democratic Republic of Congo as well, on behalf of the OIC and the African group respectively. Allow me also to congratulate the High Commissioner, His Excellency Mr. Bah Oum Sali, and to welcome his vision and his leadership, and the commitment of all of the UNHCR team to support refugees. They are unwavering in a commitment despite the difficult context, the multiplication of humanitarian crisis, and also the acute financial constraints. President, the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the 1951 Refugee Convention. It provides this Assembly with a particular opportunity to evaluate the crucial issue of refugee protection at a time when access to asylum and protection is under increasing pressure. In Western and Central Africa, the number of refugees and asylum seekers has reached 3.9 million. That is an increase of some 23%. This situation calls for increased solidarity. to those persons forcibly displaced and also towards those countries that host them. Senegal welcomes the vision of the High Commissioner, as he has the ambition of reducing by 50% by 2035 the number of refugees dependent on humanitarian aid. This worthy ambition requires, however, increased support from partners, predictable financing and increased investment, encouraging autonomy and inclusion of refugees in economic life. Faithful to our tradition of hospitality, it is in this spirit that Senegal, to bolster its system of asylum, has moved to adopt specific measures for refugees and stateless persons. These measures include strengthening the service for documentation to refugees to reduce the time needed for the treatment of their files. Thanks to these measures, 10,056 refugees have been pre-registered so that they can have biometric cards issued. My country is endeavouring as well to facilitate access of refugees and asylum seekers and stateless persons to essential services, in particular health, education, and justice services, as well as social protection. With the support of ECOWAS, 5,000 refugees were able to benefit from inclusion in social and economic measures, including universal health care. In these efforts, we are preventing and eradicating statelessness. through adopting on 2 December 2026 a draft law authorizing ratification of the protocol to the African Charter on specific aspects of the right to nationality and eradication of statelessness in Africa. President, these efforts clearly demonstrate my country's desire to bolster protection of the persons concerned and to encourage their effective inclusion. However, whatever progress we may be able to make as individual states, we urgently need to work together collectively, given the urgent situation and the need to find sustainable solutions for refugees and displaced persons, so that we can effectively meet all the needs and to address the complex situation related to refugees. The 75th anniversary of the Convention on Refugees must serve as a catalyst for unprecedented public support and strong commitment towards the sustainable and effective protection of refugees. Senegal calls for a strengthening of international cooperation on the basis of clearly identified shared responsibilities, and we shall make a positive contribution to setting up a protection and security architecture which is worthy of its name for refugees and displaced persons throughout our world. I very much hope that this meeting and the next forum will really help us to achieve this objective. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Senegal. We now pass the floor to the distinguished representative of Lithuania, to be followed by Spain. Lithuania, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Lithuania fully aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and its member states. I would like to make the following remarks in my...

The interpreters apologize. There's a problem with the microphone.

High Commissioner Salih.

There's a problem with your microphone, I'm told. It's lighting up all right.

There's a lot of interference.

I try.

Wonderful. Let's see if that...

No, it doesn't work.

Now we can hear you.

In terms of apologies, there's still a lot of interference on the microphone.

We thank High Commissioner Salih for his insightful opening statement. We highly value the work of the High Commissioner. in ensuring international protection and safeguarding the rights and well-being of refugees, internally displaced persons, and stateless persons worldwide. Lithuania is a strong supporter of the UNHCR, and we pledge our continued cooperation and support. We remain firmly committed to the protection of refugees, particularly those fleeing conflict and persecution in their countries of origin.

We recognize that growing.

Protection challenges faced by refugees, especially women, children, persons with disabilities, and other forcibly displaced persons in vulnerable situations. Mr. Chairman, we appreciate the important role of the UNHCR in providing.

Assistance to Ukraine in the context of Russia's ongoing war of aggression.

We call.

For immediate, safe, and unhindered access for UNHCR and other mandated international organizations to all Ukrainians affected by the war. We remain deeply concerned by reports that Ukrainian children have been forcibly deported to Russia and Belarus.

We support all efforts aimed at establishing their whereabouts and securing their safe return.

Mr. Chairman, since the beginning of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, more than 109,000 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Lithuania.

Currently.

More than 52,000 Lithuanian citizens are being granted temporary protection in Lithuania, which was recently extended by the Government of Lithuania until March 2028. These refugees have access to accommodation and housing support, health care, education, and the labour market. Mr. Chairman, we are concerned by the unprecedented financial pressure that UNHCR is currently facing.

At the same time, we welcome.

The measures already taken by UNHCR to enhance efficiency, prioritize activities and review programs in response to funding constraints. We also support UNHCR's engagement in implementing the United Nations Secretary-General's UN80 initiative and the humanitarian reset. We encourage UNHCR to continue aligning its work with the broader UN nation system-wide reforms aimed at delivering more effective and efficient humanitarian action. Mr. Chairman, I would also like to highlight the issue of the instrumentalization of refugees and migrants for political purposes, particularly by the authorities of Belarus since 2021. We are deeply concerned by this inhumane and unacceptable practice of exploiting vulnerable people to advance political objectives. while putting the lives and safety of the third-country nationals at risk. In response, Lithuania has instituted proceedings before the International Court of Justice against Belarus concerning the organized smuggling of migrants into Lithuania. We call on the UNHCR, together with other competent international organizations, to engage with the Belarusian authorities and urge Belarus to comply fully with its obligations under the international law. Mr. Chairman, let me assure you that Lithuania remains committed to supporting UNHCR, both politically and financially, and to actively contributing to international efforts aimed at addressing the global refugee challenges we face today.

I thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Thank you.

Thank you very much, Ambassador. I apologize for the sound quality not being ideal during your statement, but we certainly heard your -- the content of your statement came through loud and clear, so thank you again, Ambassador. We will now hear from Spain, to be followed by Montenegro. Spain, please, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, sir. Spain has signed on to the delegation of the European Union and member states, but in my national capacity, allow me to begin by welcoming the High Commissioner and his executive team to their first executive committee. You have Spain as a loyal partner that is constructive and committed to the mandate of UNHCR. And in this 75th anniversary of the Convention of 1951, we believe that this is a fine occasion to reaffirm its full force and that of its principles and to recall that international protection continues to be a collective and essential unavoidable responsibility. It has become a common, it has been common to say that we live in a complex time for multilateralism and for international law. Spain will continue to defend a strong, effective United Nations, able to provide common responses to challenges that no state can face alone. Peace, human rights, and sustainable development are inseparable pillars of this effort, and this is especially true in the area of international protection. since people are not forced to flee merely as a result of conflicts. There are other factors as well. Persecution, discrimination, and serious human rights violations are also causes of displacement. There can be no truly sustainable peace where there is not a respect for human rights and the dignity of people. We are aware of the exceptional difficulty of the financial context, and we value the efforts undertaken towards adaptation, sustainability, and efficiency in your office. We would like to reiterate our support for the staff and the office and our appreciation to all of them, as well as to those that have had to leave their posts. We are certain that this process will allow for us to target resources, or for you to target resources, to where it will have the most impact and to preserve the essential capacity to meet the mandate. Spain will continue to support the process in a constructive manner and through dialogue with your office, Mr. High Commissioner, the states, and the partners. President, on the 50 by 35 concept, Spain shares the ambition that allows for people to recover control of their lives. The inclusion of national systems, access to education, employment, public services, and the strengthening of self-sufficiency are essential. They must be supported by a sufficient international support. Lasting solutions should be addressed in all and as broadly as possible. Return should be voluntary, dignified, and sustainable. The local integration requires Political support, financial support, and resettlement and other complementary support instruments are essential in this shared responsibility. The support of my country is reflected also in the entirety of its contribution to UNHCR, public and private. The mobilization of the Spanish society reflects a shared commitment to solidarity, human dignity, and the protection of those compelled to flee. President, mixed movement requires realistic, coordinated and rights-based responses. We call for an orderly and responsible management of the borders, agile and effective procedures to determine the needs for protection and for a return with all guarantees for those who do not have a right to remain. Mr. High Commissioner, here complicity, or the support of your office, rather, will be essential. However, managing borders and guaranteeing security and protecting human rights are not incompatible goals. Legality must always come with the protection of life and human dignity, ensuring effective access to international protection for those who need it, and there must be a methodology that we believe in a position, or rather your focus on a roadmap we support, but we need a responsible public debate given disinformation and oversimplified narratives. We defend policies and a discourse that are based in facts and evidence, empirically so, to explain with rigor the reality of the forcibly This place, the causes and consequences, is essential to avoid stigmatization, to strengthen trust between our societies and to build effective policies. Gender equality, diversity and respect for human rights must be cross-cutting. Women and girls face specific risks, including gender violence and trafficking. The youth, persons with disabilities and those suffering from multiple forms of discrimination require a response that adapts to the realities and an effective participation in the decisions that affect their lives. At a time when there is a calling into question of the rules, institutions and the capacity itself of the international community to act jointly, our response should be to strengthen multilateralism and to preserve that which gives it sense, that is to say dignity and the rights of each person. much obliged.

Thank you very much, Spain. We will now hear from the distinguished representative of Montenegro, after which we will turn to the High Commissioner for his response. So, Montenegro, madam, please, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, we thank you, High Commissioner, for your statement and commend your leadership in this challenging time. With over 170 million people forcibly displaced worldwide, Protected and emerging conflicts, persecution, and repression continue to drive displacement amid geopolitical divisions and mounting environmental and socioeconomic pressures. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, the devastating conflict in Sudan, and the crisis across the Middle East, from Gaza to Syria and Lebanon, as well as in Myanmar and beyond, demonstrate the profound human consequences of failures to prevent and resolve conflicts. The 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention comes at a defining moment for international protection. Its fundamental principles have stood the test of time, yet our collective commitment to upholding them is increasingly challenged. To honor the Convention's promise, we must safeguard the right of those fleeing conflict, persecution, and other threats to their safety to seek and receive international protection, by also addressing states' legitimate interests and security concerns. High Commissioner, we welcome your 50 by 35 vision as a bold and timely initiative to address prolonged displacement and reliance on humanitarian aid, while creating opportunities for refugees to rebuild their lives. Protection remains essential, but it should not be an end in itself. To advance inclusion and self-reliance, we must also pursue durable solutions. This entails facilitating voluntary repatriation when conditions allow for a safe, dignified, and sustainable return, as well as local integration, resettlement, and complementary pathways. It is also crucial to recognize that realizing these visions requires greater inclusion of refugees within national systems, supported by strong international solidarity and responsibility sharing. This also calls for more effective engagement with host governments, financial and development partners, and other relevant stakeholders. Furthermore, lasting solutions require addressing the root causes of displacement and strengthening the linkages between humanitarian action, development, and peacebuilding. The High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection and Solutions in December will provide an important opportunity to reflect on these priorities. and chart the way forward, including in the lead up to the 2027 Global Refugee Forum. Mr. Chair, mindful of critical funding shortfalls and rising humanitarian needs, Montenegro strongly support UNHCR's ongoing restructuring towards a more focused, agile, and effective organization aligned with the UNHCR. We also encourage UNHCR to actively advance the humanitarian reset and further strengthen cooperation with IOM, including through one UN approach. These reforms, however, must preserve UNHCR's core protection mandate, specialized expertise, and operational capacity where they are needed most. Strong internal oversight and accountability are also vital to the integrity of UNHCR's operations, alongside sustained efforts to prevent and address sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment in line with a victim and survival-centered approach. Mr. Chair, Montenegro remains committed to international protection under the 1951 Refugee Conventions and its 1967 protocol. With the prospect of the EU membership within reach, We continue to align our policies with the EU migration and asylum framework. Locating along the Western Balkan route, Montenegro focuses on improving asylum procedures and reception conditions, working closely with UNHCR to support training, access to legal assistance and the protection of vulnerable individuals. A human rights-based approach to migration and asylum also guides our efforts to enhance regional cooperation, ensure early identification of protection needs, and strengthen coordination along migration routes. These priorities still inform Montenegro's migration strategy for 2027 to 2031. Moreover, Montenegro has completed the process of resolving the legal status of the remaining internally displaced persons. Legislative amendments adopted in 2025 have further improved the procedures for determining statelessness and protected stateless individuals. High Commissioner, safeguarding international protection and advancing durable solutions remain our shared responsibility. In this endeavor, UNHCR can continue to count on Montenegro's steadfast support and partnership. Reflecting this commitment, Montenegro has decided to increase its annual voluntary contribution to HCR as of 2027, having already provided additional financial support this year. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Montenegro. So, High Commissioner, we can safely say that there is a lot of engagement and interest and indeed support to your work. So, I'll give you a chance to respond, and after your response, we will then hear from the distinguished representative of China. But first, High Commissioner, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm really, truly grateful for the engagement and the important interventions and statements that have been made. I want to say thank you to Egypt for having been an important partner and has displayed enormous generosity in hosting large numbers of refugees and giving them access to national services, especially education and health. And your call for greater international responsibility sharing is well noted. Thank you for your commitment to engage with us in dialogue on sustainable returns. especially leading up to the GRF. And I want to say on a personal note as well, thank you for having received me on the mission to Egypt and to learn first hand of the important work that UNHCR is conducting in partnership with the Egyptian government on development of the integration processes and various other protection systems relating to the law. Thank you, Belarus, for your support in our reforms and to make SCR more resilient, including as it relates to operational footprints. And we continue to be committed to supporting the national capacity building. The 50 by 35 needs to address the root causes, as you say, including conflict resolution, enabling safe, dignified, and voluntary returns of people to their homes. Your inclusive policies, as you've also outlined, are also noted, including your decision to grant citizenship to stateless persons. Thank you, New Zealand, for the reaffirmation of your strong and steadfast support to UNSCR 50/35 vision and to the international refugee protection regime. Thank you for recognizing also our efforts to adapt to the changing funding environment a keeping focus on our core protection mandates. We also agree with you on the importance of keeping strong oversight to which we are committed. As I have explained, we have set up a core risk group that is tied to our senior leadership because this is very central to what we have to do and the way we do it. And thank you also for your resettlement quota and family reunification pathways as part of your efforts to ensure durable solutions and shared responsibilities. Your co-chair of priority solutions core group is particularly appreciated. And thank you once again, and your leadership in this field. Thank you, Ukraine, for your statement highlighting the very difficult dynamics and the repercussions of the attacks, also on the capacity for humanitarians to deliver. Thank you also for recognizing UNHCR's work in Ukraine and the need to protect humanitarian personnel. and your call to predictable funding, especially for winter adaptation support, is appreciated. And indeed, I agree that we need to go look beyond humanitarian support, focusing on social cohesion and common infrastructure which serves people according to need. Your point on the Ukrainian refugees preserving That connection to home is important. That is important to extend protection until it's needed, but also enable returns when feasible. International partnership, indeed, in that context, is critical to help people rebuild their lives when feasible. Thank you to Kuwait for its longstanding support for UNHCR and humanitarian causes. And for, also for noting that humanitarian aid and supporting refugee protection is an important priority, and for your support for UNSCR's 50 by 35 vision. refugee self-reliance, and digital inclusion. I also appreciate Kuwait's reaffirmation to the principles of the 1951 Convention and emphasis on conflict prevention, voluntary returns, and reform, and durable solutions. I also appreciated your call to respect international humanitarian law and the need for dialogue and diplomatic efforts to establish security and peace. Thank you, Hungary, for recalling your national history linked to refugee protection, which is in fact our global history. It was important to recall this and also understanding, as I said, who knows who will be refugees in a different era. For you to be as a sovereign state, recommitting to that Refugee Convention is really matters as an important reminder to all of us. Your commitment to the principles of the 51 Convention and to responsibility sharing is highly appreciated. Your call for greater emphasis on durable solutions has also been heard, as has your recognition of the extraordinary contribution of countries of first asylum and the host communities also. appreciate you saying very clearly that humanitarian assistance, development cooperation, and capacity building is not just an expression of solidarity, but also it is truly, as you said, investment in long-term stability. Thank you, Sierra Leone, for your statement, including your efforts to fulfill your mandate, including around refugee status determination, your action plan on combating statelessness, is also much appreciated. Targeted livelihoods and supported inclusion is also noteworthy, with completed projects to move away from dependence to humanitarian aid. Your commitment to the principle of non-refoulement is invaluable. Thank you. To Senegal, I say thank you for the statement and for outlining your efforts to strengthen the national asylum system, including through biometric registration, for your inclusive policies for refugees and stateless persons, and for your legal reforms you kindly outlined. These are important areas of work for protection of refugees and for the pursuance of solutions, and we are grateful for your commitment and also to see advance more broadly the international protection regime during this 75th anniversary. Thank you, Lithuania, for your strong support for UNHCR and your commitment to refugee protection, including Ukrainian refugees in Lithuania. Your inclusive policy is appreciated. Thank you also for recognizing our efforts to strengthen our efficiencies and implement UNHCR's agenda. We remain committed to delivering as efficiently as possible together and in partnership with other UN agencies. Thank you, Spain. and indeed for being such a solid, loyal partner. And I appreciate that you recognize our efforts to prioritize and strategize effectively. Ensuring access to international protection to those in need is indeed critical. Thank you for flagging that and calling for positive dialogue without stigmatization. I agree with you, hate speech and disinformation is a real challenge. And this is, as the UNHCR and us collectively in the international community, we really are called upon to counter that with all the means possible. And this is poisoning the environment in ways that really impacts people's lives and their safety and their security. And I should make special reference to the private sector contribution to UNHCR. In that regard, our private sector partner, the national partner, has been amazing, and the Spanish people as well as private sector have been quite forthcoming in their support. I want to salute that and recognize it. Thank you, Montenegro, for your support for UNHCR, and in particular for increasing your annual voluntary contribution as of 2027, alongside additional support already provided this year. This is truly appreciated. Your support to our reform agenda is also noted. with appreciation. I also welcome your strong endorsement of 50 by 35 vision and agree that to advance inclusive and self-reliance, we must also actively advance durable solutions. We also appreciate your commitment to the rights-based migration and asylum approach, including through your forthcoming migration strategy and your focus on improving asylum procedures and recognition, reception conditions. I commit that we will be working with you in close partnership in supporting training, access to legal assistance, and the protection of vulnerable individuals. And I thank you for and commend you for the progress on resolving legal status of remaining IDPs and your efforts to strengthen statelessness, determination, and protection procedures. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Thank you, High Commissioner, for that comprehensive response. We will then return to the speakers list where I have, like I said, the distinguished representative of China, to be followed by Poland. China, sir, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. I'm very pleased to hear that High Commissioner Salih has responded to the statements. This year, under the leadership of High Commissioner Salih and the new senior management team, the UNHCR has worked effectively in emergency response, durable solutions and institutional restructuring. He proposed a 50 by 35 vision focuses on supporting refugees self-reliance and durable solutions, demonstrating an ambition to reform and improve global refugee governance, China commends these efforts. To respond to the grave and complex challenges facing the world today, Chinese President Xi Jinping has solemnly put forward the Global Governance Initiative, offering a Chinese solution to the pressing challenges of our time, including the refugee issue. Guided by the core principles of the initiative, China shares four principles on global refugee governance and the UNHCR. First, uphold multilateralism. China supports UNHCR as the principal channel to work together with all parties in the spirit of solidarity and cooperation to enhance cross-sectoral resource coordination. Over the years, developing countries have devoted enormous human and material resources to refugee crisis. Low and middle income countries host more than 70% of the world's refugees. Their voice and representation in the global refugee governance system should be further enhanced. Developed countries should earnestly honor their assistance commitments, in particular, countries that bear primary responsibility for refugee situations should expand their support. Second, advocate a people-centered approach. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention. All countries should fulfill their legal obligations and effectively safeguard the fundamental rights of refugees. Humanitarian assistance is only a temporary measure. The ultimate solution lies in security, development, lasting peace, and shared responsibility. We should promote dialogue and consultation as means to solve disputes and actively work for ceasefire and end conflicts. We should promote universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, help countries of origin strengthen their capacity for independent development and create the conditions of vulnerable, safe and sustainable return. Third, emphasize action-oriented approach. We should seize the opportunity of the new wave of scientific revolution, actively use AI and big data to improve the efficiency of response. We should need to further diversify procurement channels, make full efforts to reduce costs and increase efficiency, ensuring that every dollar is spent where it is most needed. We should support developing countries in strengthening capacity building, fully use new technologies for sustainable development, and help them in their capacities for disaster risk management and climate change response. Fourth, uphold the rule of international law. Depoliticization is an important foundation for sound international refugee protection. We should uphold objectivity. and neutrality strictly observe UN guiding principles for humanitarian assistance and guarantee humanitarian access on the basis of respect for sovereignty. We should prevent refugee protection mechanisms from being politicized, abused, or becoming shelters for separatists and terrorists, or used as tools for some countries to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries. thereby safeguarding the credibility of the international protection system. This year marks the first year of China's 15th five-year plan. It's not only China's own development blueprint, but also a list of cooperation opportunities for the world. As a defender of the international order, a promoter of peace and stability, and provider of solutions for global governance, China will continue to actively promote peace talks on hotspot issues, playing a constructive role in advancing political settlement. China will continue to support development and revitalization of the Global South, sharing opportunities and creating prosperity together with all countries. China will continue to provide to its ability financial and project-based assistance to UNHCR, support the work of the Office through concrete actions, and inject greater certainty and positive energy into global refugee governance and humanitarian endeavor. Thank you.

Thank you very much, China. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland, to be followed by Costa Rica. Poland, please, you have the floor.

Honorable High Commissioner, Mr. Chair, Poland aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union. We thank the High Commissioner for his comprehensive introduction and for his leadership in steering UNHCR through a new chapter. In this difficult period, marked by increasing gap between identifying needs and accessible funds, Poland affirms its support for UNHCR core protection mandate. We trust that the new strategic directions, High Commissioner 50 to 35 vision, as well as the prospect new budget model, will enable organizations to adapt more effectively to current challenges. Equally strongly, we appreciate and encourage further transparency and updates on how these initiatives, coupled with the ongoing humanitarian reset, UNHAT and the completed independent management review, will translate into staffing, budgeting and UNHCR field presence around the world. In this context, one should especially acknowledge work of UNHCR staff and its implementing partner organizations on the ground, who daily provide critical assistance. Without their dedication, even the most refined undertakings would simply not succeed. Therefore, Poland calls on all actors to ensure unimpeded access of humanitarian aid, personal safety of humanitarian personnel, and unconditional compliance with the IHL. Mr. Chair, Too often we are reminded that UNHCR is forced to stretch its resources due to the lack of fundamental prerequisites, political will and peace. Democratic Republic of Congo, Middle East, Myanmar, Sudan. One of the most striking example in the case of our neighbor is the case of our neighbor, Ukraine, a victim of the ongoing illegal and unjustified war of aggression initiated by the Russian Federation. Soon, we will witness another winter season in war strike in Ukraine with an ever-growing number of displaced persons, increased Russian attacks against the civilian population and critical infrastructure in Ukraine, as well as deliberate bombings of warehouses containing humanitarian aid or food. In May, those belonging to the UNHCR in Dnipro were attacked. In July, in the town of Pavlohrad, the warehouses of organization ProLiska, the recipient of the Regional Europe Nansen Award, were targeted. We strongly condemn these ruthless and reprehensible attacks. In this context, We wish to sincerely thank the UNHCR for developing multidimensional programs like Regional Refugee Response Plan or Winter Response Plan 2025-26, and for maintaining critical physical presence in Ukraine. We encourage the UNHCR and donor community to sustain efforts in managing the international response to this conflict. For its part, Poland will continue to display compassion and solidarity. For almost five years, we've been providing one of the largest Ukrainian refugee diaspora communities worldwide with shelter from war, as well as durable solutions, access to social services, medical care, education, and professional development. This enables them to integrate into society, rebuild their lives with dignity, and return to Ukraine when conditions permit. In addition, over the last few years, we have adopted a multi-track approach by making additional financial donations to mitigate the effects of humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, Syria, Sudan, Lebanon, Yemen, and Armenia. Rest assured, Mr. High Commissioner, that Polish engagement, as well as support for you and your office, will endure in the years to come. I thank you.

Thank you very much, Poland. We will now hear from Costa Rica, to be followed by Zimbabwe. Costa Rica, please, you have the floor.

President, on behalf of my country, I would like to commend the Bureau and the dias for the conduct of this event and to express our appreciation to the High Commissioner and the UNHCR staff for their commitment amid a complex financial an institutional reality. Costa Rica joins the joint statement presented by Colombia, representing GRULAC. And we come to this plenary reaffirming our historic commitment to the Convention on the Status of Refugees of 1951 and its 1977 protocol. The 75th anniversary is an opportunity to reaffirm its full force facing the contemporary challenges of displacement. Mr. President, Costa Rica hosts one of the highest per capita proportions of people under international protection in the world. In August of 2026, my country welcomed more than 200 and 80,000 forcibly displaced, nearly 4% of our population. Nearly 85% are Nicaraguan. Since 2018, they have found in Costa Rica security and stability necessary to rebuild their lives. In this context, our response has been clear. progressively incorporate and integrate refugees and asylum seekers into our national systems, instead of creating a substantialist parallel systems. With the support of UNHCR and international cooperation, we have been able to promote access to public education, health care through our social security savings system, and through special temporary residency status. Our experience shows, however, that the incorporation into national systems does not eliminate the need for international cooperation. The sustainability of this model requires predictable financing that is long-term, and it must support the host communities. The fiscal and institutional capacity of the host countries is not unlimited. It must also be supported by effective mechanisms. It is especially meaningful then that there be resources available to face the growing humanitarian needs. For 2027, the budget proposed for the Americas is reduced at some 32%. the largest percentage reduction of all regions. This reality has a direct impact on Costa Rica, where UNHCR has reduced its operational budget by some 68% since 2024. This affects capacity and presence on the ground. Given this reality, we recognize the need to move forward towards greater efficiency and to preserve capacity for protection in UNHCR and to prevent these adjustments to to undermine the work of the host countries. We back the efforts to preserve a budget that is based on needs, complemented by an additional budget. This would allow for transparent priorities that are realistic. We wish to underscore as well the importance of increasing flexible use funds that give UNHCR better capacity to respond in a balanced manner to the needs of different regions. We also value the 35 by 50 by 35 vision to bring greater self-sufficiency and sustainable solutions for refugees. Costa Rica shares this goal, and we have moved forward with the integration of refugees into our national system to reflect that. However, this cannot mean substitution of solidarity from the international community. To be sustainable, there must also be predictable financing, investment in development, and support for institutions and communities in the host countries. And with the 75th anniversary on status of refugees, we wish to reaffirm our commitment to international protection that is effective with truly shared responsibilities. Host countries, we continue to be to need support from the international community. This must bring international resources and pledges to support our host communities. Thank you very much, Mr. President.

Thank you very much, Costa Rica. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Zimbabwe, to be followed by Luxembourg. Zimbabwe, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Your Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for giving Zimbabwe the floor. We align ourselves with the Africa Group statement delivered by the Democratic Republic of Congo and the statement delivered by Mozambique on behalf of the Geneva Support Group on Western Sahara. Chairperson, at the outset, allow me, on behalf of the Zimbabwe delegation, to congratulate you and your fellow members of the BERU on the excellent manner in which you are conducting the 77th session of the ExCom. We express profound appreciation to the High Commissioner, Mr. Baham Saleh, for his comprehensive and sobering first address to the ExCom. His remarks accurately mirror the unprecedented gravity of the global displacement crisis, punctuated by compounding conflicts, deep-seated geographical fractures, and severe underfunding. Chairperson, Zimbabwe notes with great concern the escalating gap between humanitarian needs and available financial resources. As operational demands multiply across Africa and indeed the entire globe, the budget deficits facing UNHCR severely compromise the dignity and safety of millions of displaced individuals. We call upon traditional and emerging donor partners to provide robust, predictable, and flexible funding to ensure that the High Commissioner's mandate can be fully exercised without geographical bias. Chairperson, the Republic of Zimbabwe continues to model its refugee response on the enduring African philosophy of Ubuntu, the fundamental truth that our shared humanity is inextricably linked. Despite navigating intense domestic economic headwinds and severe climate-induced shocks that threaten regional food security, Zimbabwe remains steadfast on its open-door policy for those seeking international protection. Today, our progressive approach translates directly into structural action at the Tongogara refugee settlement and surrounding host communities. In line with our pledges at the Global Refugee Forum, we are systematically incorporating refugees into the second phase of our national development strategy. This ensures that healthcare, primary and secondary education, and agricultural empowerment programs are accessible to host communities and refugees alike, fostering peaceful coexistence and shared resilience. Chairperson, we are pleased to announce that Tongogara Refugee Settlement now has a radio station, FM Tongogara, that services both the host community and the refugee settlement. Furthermore, the government of Zimbabwe has incorporated Tongogara Refugee Settlement into a district master plan. This strategic inclusion will significantly contribute towards our shared goal of transforming settlement into a recognized service center for both refugees and the host community. Chairperson, legal inclusion is the cornerstone of dignity. Zimbabwe is currently engaged in the process of amending the Refugees Act, and this process is near completion. The government of Zimbabwe has also made significant strides in ensuring comprehensive access to civil documentation. We are pleased to report that the national valid lifespan of identification cards issued to refugees has been successfully extended from two to five years. The policy change directly reduces bureaucratic hurdles, enhances freedom of movement, and unlocks long-term livelihood opportunities. Furthermore, we continue to empower refugee-led organizations. By legally registering them as private voluntary organisations and integrating these entities, we have allowed refugees to lead their own green initiatives, educational support structures and sporting programmes. These actions prove that refugees are not passive recipients of aid, but proactive contributors to the social economic tapestry of their host nations. Chairperson, with respect to the reforms implemented by the UNHCR, Zimbabwe welcomes the establishment of the multi-country office for Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, and the commitments made by the UNHCR to strengthen protection and solutions in the sub-region. We, however, wish to express our deep concern that Southern Africa remains critically underfunded, despite hosting significant numbers of refugees, asylum seekers and stateless persons, and facing complex mixed migration dynamics. In this context, Chairperson, Zimbabwe calls upon UNHCR to increase its support to Southern Africa, including through predictable and sustainable funding, enhanced technical support for inclusion and self-reliance, and strengthened capacity for refugee status determination, registration, and durable solutions. Chairperson, in conclusion, Zimbabwe reiterates that the global refugee crisis is not the burden of host nations alone. It is a shared global responsibility. True solidarity demands that international funding moves beyond reactive emergency assistance and swifts towards long-term developmental support, climate-resilient infrastructure, and building system capacities. Zimbabwe will continue to work with the UNHCR and the international community in the spirit of international solidarity and equitable burden and responsibility sharing to safeguard the fundamental right to asylum, preserve human dignity, and achieve lasting, sustainable solutions for all displaced populations. I thank you.

Thank you, Zimbabwe. I now call on the distinguished representative of Luxembourg, to be followed by Germany, and I also remind everyone of the five-minute maximum speaking time. Luxembourg, you have the floor, sir.

Mr. High Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, Luxembourg associates itself with the statement made on behalf of the EU. We wish to add some observations with wearing our national hat. We are met in a particularly difficult context for the humanitarian system. While conflicts are prolonged and extended and forced displacement is reaching unprecedented levels and humanitarian needs continue to increase, resources available drop. This reality compels us collectively to rethink our approaches and to find more lasting solutions. In this context, Luxembourg hails the efforts for reform in UNHCR, we are aware of the financial constraints to which the organization is confronted, and we understand this led to difficult decisions, including restructuring and staff reductions. We continue to recognize the remarkable commitment of UNHCR personnel and staff that continue to ensure their missions take place even in ever more complex situations. For Luxembourg, the objective is clear with the reforms to preserve the capacity of UNHCR to ensure protection for refugees while strengthening efficacy, resilience, and sustainability in its action. We favorably look upon the 30, or rather 50 by 35 vision, which to reduce the dependency of refugees by half on humanitarian assistance by 2035. This ambition reflects conviction that we all share. Humanitarian aid remains crucial. However, given situations of displacement that are ongoing and complex, we must invest increasingly in those approaches that favor early solutions that allow for refugees to have access to education, employment, and essential services. giving them the means to build their own future. Along these lines, innovation is not just an option, but rather an essential lever for improving efficacy of action on the ground and to respond to evolving needs. Needs increase, resources shrink. We must find the means to do more with the available resources. Digital technology, connectivity, and data, and AI can help to improve the efficacy of the assistance and to better anticipate crises and strengthen the autonomy of displaced populations. if they are used in a manner that is responsible and person-based. Luxembourg is proud to support UNHCR in this transformation. This year, our cooperation has entered a new phase with the signing of our framework, strategic partnership framework 2027-2030. Through this partnership, we affirm our commitment to provide predictable and flexible financing to UNHCR while supporting its efforts to bring reform and to accelerate innovation at the service of the displaced. We are particularly happy to have launched this year in Luxembourg, UNHCR Innovation Accelerator. The objective is to allow for innovation that has shown to be effective on the ground and to deploy this scaled up. Our commitment is also shown through our support, our longstanding support for the Connectivity for Refugees Initiative. We are convinced that connectivity is today an essential factor for protection, inclusion, and autonomy. Lastly, we welcome the role played by the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology including through the development of the early warning system for forced displacements project. This shows the potential of new technology to improve the ability to get the jump on forced displacements and to bring capacity building that is better targeted. What we see are initiatives that are founded with the partnerships. We see learning and innovation. This is one and the same. to bring lasting and systemic impact to the benefit of refugees and the displaced and host communities. These are the goals. Ladies and gentlemen, this year marks the 75th anniversary of the Convention of 1951 on the status of refugees. In a world that confronts forced disappearance of a complexity and scope that is unprecedented, this instrument is a cornerstone of the international protection for refugees. 75 years after its adoption, the convention has not lost any of its relevancy or importance or relevancy. Luxembourg will continue to support UNHCR action to promote lasting solutions that offer refugees prospects and strengthen the communities that receive them. I thank you kindly.

Thank you very much, Luxembourg, Madam Ambassador. I now pass the floor to Germany, followed by Sweden. Germany, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. High Commissioner, distinguished delegates, Germany aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. We are gathering this week for the 77th session of the Executive Committee at a time of increased international instability. New conflicts crop up, senseless violence continues in many parts of the world, Global economy stability erodes, displacement remains at all time highs, and the effects of climate change are becoming more felt than ever. This is met by a humanitarian system under immense strain. Funding has stopped to meet the needs. Organizations are forced to scale down, and violations of international humanitarian law are the rule, no longer the exception. As a result, the world's most vulnerable people are left to fend for themselves. But it doesn't stop there. Attacks on humanitarian personnel, including UNHCR staff, are increasing. Today, we honor their courage, their service, and their sacrifice. Humanitarians, just as any civilians, can never be a target. Mr. Chair, given the alarming state of the multilateral and humanitarian systems, a clear vision is crucial. Germany, therefore, welcomes the High Commissioner's vision 50 by 35. We are looking forward to learning more about the Global Strategy on Self-Reliance and the 50x35 Accelerator, which the High Commissioner has mentioned in yesterday's statement. We see strong synergies between the High Commissioner's vision and the UNHCR and humanitarian reset reform agendas. Germany fully supports these reform efforts in which UNHCR has been playing a crucial role. UNHCR needs to fully leverage their mutual reinforcing potential and strengthen the effectiveness and sustainability of its response to humanitarian and displacement crises. Doing so will require an adaptation of UNHCR's operating model as well as its fundraising and human resource strategies. Germany therefore encourages UNHCR to First, align actors strategically, financially and operationally behind government led strategies, avoiding parallel structures and preventing protracted situations. Second, promote self-reliance from the outset, reducing aid dependency and facilitating inclusion and durable solutions. Third, mobilize a broad coalition of supporters, including host governments, UN agencies, bilateral donors, international financial institutions, non-governmental organizations, and refugee-led organizations, and the private sector. This approach comes with the benefit of serving not only those falling under 50 by 35, but everyone that is of concern to UNHCR. Mr. Chair, those who have been granted international protection deserve a real chance to rebuild their lives and strengthen their contribution to host communities. This is a key factor for success. Hosting a substantial refugee community, we speak from experience. Germany values refugee participation in shaping public policy, both at home and internationally, and we feel honored that Mrs. Le Havre member of the Refugee Advisory Board, is part of the German delegation this week, and we value the Advisory Board's contribution to this statement. Mr. Chair, Germany closely follows the internal transformation that UNHCR is currently undergoing. Delivery also needs skilled staff. We encourage the organization to put an emphasis on the retention of expertise and experience, despite the massive staff reduction. This reduction, like any transition, needs to be managed. It needs dedicated and independent capacity. We request to be regularly briefed about the ongoing transition. A cross-cutting overview, clear milestones, and transparent prioritization are indispensable. We therefore ask the following questions: Who will be responsible for managing the transition? Will it be assigned to a specific independent unit who will ensure that established procedures are followed, risks are identified, and compliance is ensured? I thank you.

Thank you very much, Germany. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Sweden, to be followed by Mexico. Sweden, sir, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, High Commissioner. Sweden aligns itself with the statement delivered by Ireland on behalf of the EU. Allow me to begin by welcoming the new leadership of the UNHCR under your stewardship, High Commissioner Salih. At a time of profound humanitarian challenges and increasing displacement, we look forward to working closely with you and your team to uphold international protection, deliver solutions, and strengthen UNHCR's effectiveness and impact. The scale and complexity of forced displacement continues to grow, driven by conflicts, violence, persecution and climate-related risks. At the same time, the humanitarian system is facing unprecedented financial pressure, requiring difficult choices and prioritization. Sweden recognizes the efforts undertaken by UNHCR to adapt to this reality while seeking to protect those most in need. Against this backdrop, flexible and predictable funding is more important than ever. Unearmarked contributions enable UNHCR to allocate resources where needs are greatest and to respond rapidly to emerging crises. As UNHCR's currently largest donor of flexible and unearmarked funding, Sweden remains and continue to remain a reliable and committed partner. We strongly encourage other donors to follow suit and increase the flexible funding to strengthen UNHCR's ability to deliver on its mandate. An increased proportion of core funding would strengthen UNHCR's ability to deliver protection and assistance where it is most urgently required and help safeguard principled humanitarian action in an increasingly constrained environment. We commend UNHCR for its effort to broaden its donor base and strengthen resource mobilization, including through engagement with the private sector and non-traditional donors. High Commissioner, Sweden supports the 50 by 35 initiative and welcomes UNHCR's leadership in advancing durable solutions and drawing attention to the growing number of refugees who are in protracted displacement. We recognize UNHCR's key role in advancing durable solutions through voluntary return, resettlement, and local integration. Sweden continues to support efforts to promote refugee inclusion, self-reliance, and alignment with national systems, while upholding refugee rights and responding to the realities faced by host countries and communities. UNHCR's protection mandate is unique, and indispensable. UNHCR plays a key role in its efforts to strengthen collective action to reduce the risk of violence in all humanitarian action. Advancing protection from gender-based violence and ensuring the integration of SRHR across your operations remain key priorities for Sweden. In humanitarian crises, local actors play a crucial role in protection and needs-based assistance, so also in refugee settings. Sweden is committed to advance work on strengthening locally led development cooperation and expects UNHCR to continue to strengthen equitable partnerships with local and national partners based on complementarity and recognition of each party's added value. Resettlement remains a sustainable, safe and organized way of providing international protection to refugees in the most vulnerable situations. This year, Sweden has taken the role of co-chair with Norway of the UNHCR consultations on resettlement and complementarity pathways, CRSP, CRCP. As a long-standing resettlement country, Sweden continues our national commitments in the 2026 by maintaining our quota of 900 refugees in close collaboration with UNHCR and IOM. Supporting the root-based approach, priorities given to women, girls, and LGBTQI refugees, focusing mainly on the refugee situations in the Great Lakes region of Africa, Uganda, and Rwanda. High Commissioner, lastly, as we commemorate the important 70th anniversary of the Refugee Convention, Sweden reaffirms its full support for the 1951 Convention and the 67 Protocol, which we view as pillars of our rules-based international order. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Sweden. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico, to be followed by Greece. Mexico, please, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, President. Mexico signs on to the statements made by Colombia on behalf of GRULAC and Australia on behalf of its group. We thank the High Commissioner for his first presentation to the Executive Committee. Mexico is a firm defender of multilateralism, international law, and the institutional framework charged with ensuring compliance with the 75th anniversary of the Convention. on the Statute of Refugees, we reiterate our support for this, echoing the calls for its full ratification and implementation, universal that is. We are also convinced that the global Compact on Refugees and Regional Initiatives, and the Declaration and Plan of Action of Chile are key for strengthening international protection, promoting sustainable solutions, and encouraging international and multi-actor cooperation. President, Mexico welcomes the recent visit of the High Commissioner to our country. It took place on 26 to 29 September. He could see firsthand what Mexico's experience has been. In recent years, Mexico has consolidated itself as a host country for asylum seekers and refugees. In just 2025, Mexico received more than 70,500 asylum requests, added to some 600,000 since 2019. This is a major challenge facing and supporting those who are forced to flee. Faithful to our humanist focus, Mexico has addressed this with solidity and openness. Over the last decade, we have shown that our country is seeking to include this group in the labor market, and this is a viable path towards lasting solutions, as referred to by the High Commissioner's Office in the statement on There is a program for local integration, involvement of some 650 countries and 175,000 refugees and asylum seekers that are working fully, incorporated into the labor market, in school, naturalized, and rebuilding their lives with coordinated alliances. Refugees contribute in a positive manner to Mexican society. It is thought that 50,000 refugees have participated in a local integration program. contributing $15 million to annual taxes. The Mexican government has moved forward with a national policy called Mexico Incorporates or Integrates, designed to bring inclusion of refugees as a systematic part of our country's development agenda. The initiative brings together protection, access to rights and services, employment, and socioeconomic integration with a coordinated focus led by the state so that refugees and asylum seekers can become self-sufficient starting as early as possible in the asylum process. For the aforementioned, our country supports the 50 by 35 vision of the High Commissioner and wish to offer our experience in the area of integration and corporation. President Mexico shares the concern of the High Commissioner regarding the ongoing nature of armed conflict around the world. We see with concern the increase in restrictive measures that limit the right to seek asylum, as well as a proliferation of policies aimed at externalizing responsibilities of international protection. This can imperil individuals regarding the non-devolution, non-return. We reaffirm that refugees and asylum seekers are right holders for merely being people, and they enjoy the protection and principles of non-discrimination and universality of human rights. Mexico will continue to call for the promotion and protection of the human rights, including in the framework of the conclusions of this Executive Committee. We further express concern over the ongoing narratives that dehumanize migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, and we call to all to fight these with evidence-based information and to rebuild the social fabric in order to ensure human dignity of all people, regardless of their status. We appreciate the new strategic guidelines of UNHCR. We agree on the need to prioritize resources in this complex financial situation. Mexico would appreciate information on, or appreciates the information on reforms underway in UNHCR, and we would appreciate more information, detailed information on the progress, impact, and periodic updates on the participation and contribution of UNHCR to UN80 and humanitarian relaunch. Thank you very much.

Thank you very much, Mexico. We will now hear from the distinguished representative of Greece, after which we will turn back to the High Commissioner for his response. But first, Greece, you have the floor, sir.

Thank you, Chair. High Commissioner, Greece is a party to the statement delivered by the European Union. Greece thanks the High Commissioner for his statement and commends the UNHCR's leadership at a time of unprecedented pressure on the international protection system. As we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention, Greece reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the Convention and the fundamental principles of international refugee protection. The Convention remains the cornerstone of the international protection system, and the UNHCR is its indispensable guardian. Greece strongly supports the UNHCR's core mandate and pays tribute to its personnel, who continue to deliver in extremely challenging circumstances. We recognize their professionalism and commitment, particularly at a time of financial constraints, restructuring and difficult workforce adjustments. It is essential that the organization retains its protection expertise and operational capacity necessary to deliver effectively where needs are greatest. In this regard, Greece supports UNHCR's reform efforts towards a more efficient and field-oriented organization with clearer priorities, stronger accountability, greater capacity at country level. We encourage enhanced coordination within the United Nations system in line with the humanitarian reset and the UNHCR process in order to avoid duplication, make best possible use of limited resources and improve delivery on the ground. We welcome the High Commissioner's 50 by 35 vision to reduce by half by 2035 the number of refugees in protracted displacement who remain dependent on humanitarian assistance. Achieving this ambition will require a stronger humanitarian development peace nexus and sustained engagement from development actors, international financial institutions, and the private sector. Durable solutions must remain at the core of this effort. Greece supports voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable returns where conditions allow, as well as complementary pathways. We hope to see tangible progress towards sustainable solutions for protracted displacement situations, including for the populations living in the Tindouf camps, through sustained UNHCR and international engagement in support of durable and voluntary solutions. We would welcome further information on how the 50x35 vision will be operationalized at country level, including concrete priorities, partnerships, and measurable outcomes. Chair. Mixed movements continue to pose complex protection, humanitarian, and migration management challenges. In this context, Greece supports closer cooperation between UNHCR, IOM, and other relevant partners, fully respecting their distinct mandates. The route-based approach can make an important contribution by identifying protection needs and vulnerabilities at an early stage, countering trafficking and smuggling networks, preventing irregular migration and ensuring that persons in need of international protection are promptly identified. As an EU member state at the Union's external borders, Greece remains committed to combining effective border management and full respect for international and European law, including humanitarian and human rights obligations. This requires strengthened cooperation with countries of origin and transit, effective returns to those without a right to remain, and a firm response to the instrumentalization of migrants and refugees for political purposes. It also requires safeguarding the credibility and integrity of asylum systems so that protection remains accessible to those who genuinely need it. Chair, Greece remains a steadfast partner of the UNHCR, We stand ready to continue supporting its mandate, its reform efforts, and its personnel. In the shared pursuit of protection, responsibility sharing, and durable solutions, I thank you.

Thank you very much, Greece. And over to you, High Commissioner.

Mr. Chairman, thank you so very much. And again, thank you, Excellencies, for great contributions and interventions. Let me start by thanking China for recognizing our work in responding to emergencies and working towards 50 by 35 while reforming. And I note with appreciation China's call on the need for adhering to the principles enshrined in the Refugee Convention and are grateful for the appreciation of UNHCR's work for recognizing the importance of supporting refugee-hosting states and ensuring that their views are effectively heard. for calling for a people-centered approach, bringing together security, development, and lasting peace. I'm also fully in agreement on having an action-oriented approach using the means of technology and leveraging AI properly with the proper safeguards, leading us to a more efficient and making technology really deliver for our mission and bringing help to the people that they need it. Thank you, Paul, and for recognizing our work around the strategic directions and 50 by 35, and we will continue engaging with member states as we continue to advance our priorities. And thank you also for acknowledging our work, the work of UNHCR and its implementing partners, and equally recognize our work in developing multi-national, multi-dimensional programs like regional refugee responses, plans, winter response plans. Your generosity for five years in hosting the largest Ukrainian refugee community in an inclusive manner is much appreciated and recognized. Thank you, Costa Rica, for your generous hosting of refugees and enabling them to rebuild their lives through inclusion in the national systems rather than parallel systems. There is, though, still need for international cooperation, as you rightly flagged. Support to national systems and host communities is needed through effective mechanisms. And I appreciate that humanitarian budgets are going down, including in the Americas. and we will work together to increase support and also to work towards greater efficiencies, as you have identified. The work we will carry out under 50 by 35, thank you for your support for that, should help us move towards greater capacities and abilities to achieve on our mission. I have appreciated hearing Zimbabwe, your reference in your statement on and enduring African philosophy of Ubuntu, as you described it, as the fundamental truth that our shared humanity is inextricably linked. I could not agree more. Thank you for reminding us of this. Your pursuing actions, as you have outlined, per your GRF pledges, is a reflection of that truth, with inclusive policies at the refugee settlements and surrounding host communities have shown. Your policy changes around issuance of identification cards is also critically important, enhancing freedom of movement and unlocking long-term livelihood opportunities. This is consequential and is critical. Thank you, Lord Saksenberg, for your partnership and for your clear support for UNHCR reform efforts. Your emphasis on preserving protection while improving efficiency, resilience and sustainability, exactly the balance we must achieve. I also welcome Luxembourg's support for the 50 by 35 vision. Your commitment to predictable, flexible funding under the new 2027-2030 Strategic Partnership Framework is particularly valuable for us. Luxembourg's leadership on responsible innovation, connectivity for refugee and early warning for forced displacement shows how technology can strengthen protection, preparedness and self-reliance when it remains people-centered. Thank you for your strong support. Thank you, Germany, for your support and thoughts on the adoption of UNSCR's operating model as well as the fundraising and human resource strategies. As you would have heard in my statements, I'm very pleased that we are aligned in many ways on how we wish strategically to advance in these areas. And I'm also committed to keeping you and other partners closely informed as we continue our reforms, which are closely and directly managed by myself, the senior leadership in the CEPT, depending on the workstream. And we will also assure that there are full briefings as the work advances, including on the accelerator substantively as we move on these reforms. And thank you for having Ms. Lehas Aldaf, a member of the Refugee Advisory Board as part of the German delegation. This is meaningful, and I strongly encourage similar approaches by other member states, and that is well noted, and thank you, Germany, for that. Sweden, allow me to begin by expressing profound gratitude for being UNHCR's largest donor of flexible and unearmarked funding. At a time of mounting displacement and severe financial constraints, Sweden's predictable support enables us to direct resources rapidly to where the needs are greatest and to protect principled humanitarian action. We value Sweden's steadfast partnership and leadership in encouraging other donors to increase flexible funding. Your support for durable solutions, protections, and gender-based violence, locally-led action, and stronger accountability is deeply appreciated. I also want to thank Sweden for its enduring commitment to resettlement, including its culture in the consultations on resettlement and complementary pathways. This leadership helps preserve resettlement as a vital protection tool for refugees facing the greatest risks. Thank you, Mexico. for having recently hosted me in a very informative mission, for your leadership as a country of asylum, and for your inclusive policies. Your experience showed that access to documentation, decent work, education, and naturalization can enable refugees to rebuild their lives while contributing meaningfully to host communities. Your local integration program and Mexico Integra policies are important models of sustainable, state-led, nationally owned inclusion system. I have to say I was so inspired to visit many corporations, Japanese, German, other multinational companies operating in Mexico. all were so pleased and encouraging of recruiting refugees and include them in the workforce. Hearing from local authorities and national leaders in the country that these refugees do not have to be a burden, they are contributors and they are being included. Quite a powerful statement in terms of what we have seen. I also share Mexico's concern about conflict, shrinking access to asylum and measured that undermine the principle of non-refoulement. Your emphasis on addressing root causes of forced displacement is also highly appreciated. We value your support during this demanding financial period and will continue keeping member states informed on our reforms, strategic directions, and engagement on UNAT and the humanitarian reset. It's very important to underscore UNAT and humanitarian reset. This is an important framework to making sure not just UNHCR, but the entire UN system moves in the right direction of efficiency, accountability, transparency, and being able to deliver what we are meant to do. Thank you, Greece, for reaffirming your unwavering commitment to the 1951 Convention and the fundamental principles of the International Refugee Convention, and for paying tribute to UNHCR personnel delivering in extremely challenging circumstances. I have seen this devotion on the ground myself, and thank you on their behalf for recognizing their work. Thank you also for supporting our reform efforts, noting our push become more efficient and field-oriented organization with clear priorities. We will continue down that path and also in coordination with others under the humanitarian reset and UNHCR. As you flagged, our partnership with IOM is particularly important, and as we support states in responding to mixed movements. Your commitment to combining effective border management with full respect for international and EU laws obligations is also noted with much appreciation. I want to go back to the fundamentals. Refugee protection obligations under the UN, under the 1951 Refugee Convention, does not erode sovereign rights of states managing the borders and making sure that these obligations are delivered on. We are partners to making sure that that is done right. I'm also grateful for the support you show to our 50 by 35 vision and your emphasis also that durable solutions must remain at the core of this effort. We will continue engaging with you on how this vision will be operationalized at the country level. Thank you so very much, Mr. Chairman.

Thank you, High Commissioner. Thank you for underlining that even if we are confronted with many challenges, there are also important progress to be registered, and not least around host countries managing to include refugees in their local systems and economies. So thank you for that, High Commissioner. We will now return to the speakers list, and the first one on that list is the Distinguished Representative of Algeria. Algeria, please, you have the floor.

Thank you. Thank you very much, Mr. Chair, for giving me the floor. Let me start my contribution to this debate by thanking the High Commissioner for his comprehensive address to this Committee yesterday. Mr. High Commissioner, we could not agree more with you. Seventy-five years after the adoption of the 1951 Convention, The world has certainly changed, but the Convention's promise has to remain. The world has changed and we are extremely worried by the sharp decline in humanitarian funding, which places additional burdens on the refugees in a manner that amounts

to a form of double punishment.

Yet, and as you rightly emphasized,

The Convention's promise has to remain.

It has to remain because international assistance and international protection are not acts of charity.

They are fundamental rights to which all refugees are fully entitled as long as the root causes that force them to flee are still unresolved.

And this is what the UNHCR core mandate is all about.

This assessment resonates deeply with the situation of the Sahrawi refugees nowadays. While any renewed interest in their plight is more than welcome at this particular stage, this interest should not overshadow the political process that has the responsibility of addressing the root causes of this situation. As the host country of these

refugees for over five decades, and as the foremost financial donor in support of improving their living conditions, Algeria

calls on the international community to maintain and to even strengthen its support for these forcibly displaced persons.

At the same time, we wish to emphasize that any engagement on this matter

should be carefully guided by the realities on the ground and, most importantly, by the following three undeniable and fundamental truths. The first undeniable truth lies in the specific case of the Sahrawi refugees. These are not refugees fleeing economic hardships. severe climate conditions, or even internal civil wars. These are people displaced from a non-self-governing territory called Western Sahara. And these are people whose inalienable right to the self-determination in accordance with UN Charter remains at the very heart of their plight. The second undeniable truth is that in the Sahrawi refugee camps in Tindouf, the will of the refugees has always been and continues to be the guiding principle.

The camps are open

and transparent as they host a permanent presence of over five UN entities and more than 20 international NGOs, alongside regular visits by international donors, international observers and different UN mechanisms. The third and final undeniable truth relates to the basic principles of humanitarian action. Although this may sound like stating the obvious, I firmly believe that we need to stress this again and again. Humanitarian assistance should not be instrumentalized or used as political leverage.

And the suffering of the Sahrawi refugees must not become a bargaining chip

to score political points or to advance narrow and selfish objectives.

In light of this fundamental and undeniable truth, my delegation firmly believes that we must avoid sending the wrong message at the wrong time. We must also avoid the risk of blurring the distinction between the humanitarian imperatives and the political realities. We must finally refrain from creating a confusion that could exacerbate the suffering of the Sahrawi refugees instead of bringing them the relief they fully deserve.

To conclude, it is very regrettable

if not astonishing, to see the party that bears the primary and full responsibility for this situation trying to lecture this August Committee on durable solutions.

To move from a state of complete denial to the posture of a self-appointed moral authority,

this is what we call opportunism at its very worst.

In response to that,

I say, and I believe, that the international community

is neither blind to the facts nor ignorant of the origins of this situation.

I thank you.

Thank you, Algeria. I will now pass the floor to the distinguished representative of France, to be followed by Armenia. France, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, President. First and foremost, I would like to express my solidarity with Panama and its population following the earthquake which has struck the country. High Commissioner, you've drawn our attention to an essential point, sustainability. As you quite rightly underscore, the current situation is not sustainable. The humanitarian system is becoming exhausted and depleted by crises which are ever more numerous and ever longer and more violent. The number of forcibly displaced persons has doubled in 10 years, whilst our resources are becoming scarce. Given this situation, France is shouldering its responsibilities. Firstly, to make sure that the Security Council of the United Nations is fully playing its role for peace and security, France has committed itself to finding political responses to conflicts in the Middle East, in the Great Lakes region, in Sudan. France is also, together with Mexico, responsible for an initiative to renounce using the veto when there are mass atrocities, and this initiative now brings together some 128 countries. France is also in favor of the ICRC initiative, promoting respect for international humanitarian law everywhere and by everyone in a uniform manner. I would like to Jordan for having hosted the high-level conference of this initiative in December. It's a very important initiative and South Africa, Brazil, China and Kazakhstan founded this initiative together with France and Jordan. 122 countries already joined this initiative and I call upon the members of the Executive Committee to do the same. France also supports your strategic vision, High Commissioner. Your vision, which aims to develop sustainable solutions and to break the dependency cycle in the long term. We support the 50 by 35 initiative, which involves better integration of refugees and more autonomy for them, in particular through access to education and the labor market. We urge renewed support from donor countries and host communities, which are 70% of them low and middle income countries. This collective endeavor that we are undertaking together with UNHCR and other development stakeholders and the private sector is vital to prevent and resolve crisis. Given the situation, High Commissioner, you are conducting a courageous reform similar to the UN80 and the Humanitarian Reset initiatives. Rest assured that France supports your efforts to strengthen UNHCR's resilience and to strengthen your protection mandate. Optimizing resources, modernizing the governance of the agency are both vital to maintain the effective support provided in the field. We shall heed the message of those who are most affected by the reforms, and we would express our full support to them, that is, the refugees themselves, the host countries and communities, and the UNHCR staff. Here, I would recall, as many colleagues have done, that for France, it is the teams working in the agency, which for so many years have given it its particular strength. Staff expertise represents the wealth of the organization and is vital. We encourage UNHCR in the reforms underway to value experience acquired in the field, including through establishing sufficiently predictable conditions, which are incentives to retain talent. To conclude, I reassert France's belief in the 1951 Convention. High Commissioner, you mentioned this. It is a text which is necessary and fully up to date. As we celebrate the 75th birthday of this Convention, it does not need to be updated in the spirit of the times. It needs our collective support. and our political support under the auspices of the UNHCR, which ensures an interpretation of the Convention which is both modern and operational. France finally reasserts its commitment to the Global Compact on Refugees and its principle of shared responsibilities. We are active as co-sponsors of the Global Refugee Forum and initiators of the AVEC L initiative for women and girls who are refugees, which is a major topic of concern. 75% of contributions from France to UNHCR this year was either flexible financing, so unearmarked, or contributions to those operations which were most in need of financing, in particular Lebanon and Sudan. Thank you, President.

Thank you very much, Franz. I now pass the floor to the distinguished representative of Armenia, to be followed by Togo. Armenia, madam, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, High Commissioner, Excellencies, Armenia welcomes the High Commissioner's vision for renewed attention to protection and solutions, and particularly the emphasis on expanding opportunities for inclusion while reducing long-term dependence on humanitarian assistance. This approach strongly resonates with Armenia's own experience.

Following the large scale.

Influx of more than 130,000 Karabakh Armenians displaced into Armenia in September, October 2023, Armenia has progressively moved from emergency response towards longer term solutions and the sustainable inclusion of refugees in national systems. A central element of this transition is the Inclusive Livelihoods National Framework for Refugees and Host Communities, developed in close partnership with UNHCR. The framework aims to advance refugees' self-reliance and economic inclusion while strengthening the resilience of host communities. Our focus is now firmly on its effective implementation and on translating this framework into tangible results. This work brings together relevant government institutions, the UN entities and development partners around concrete areas of cooperation, including employment, skills development and access to economic opportunities. It provides a practical platform for aligning refugee inclusion with national systems and broader development priorities. We therefore particularly welcome the High Commissioner's call for greater investment in national systems and in livelihoods and economic opportunities that benefit refugees and host communities alike. Sustainable inclusion requires not only meeting immediate needs, but enabling refugees to become increasingly self-reliant and to participate fully in the economic and social life of their communities. In this transition, UNHCR's role remains essential, even as the nature of this engagement evolves. Its protection expertise, institutional knowledge and convening role are important in bringing together government institutions, humanitarian and development actors, international financial institutions, private sector and civil society around sustainable solutions. Mr. Chair, we're fully cognizant of the severe financial pressure facing UNHCR and the need for the organization to.

Adapt to these realities.

At the same time, it is important that ongoing reforms and operational adjustments preserve the continuity and effectiveness of existing programs and cooperation at the country level.

This is.

Particularly important where considerable investment has already been made in building partnerships and mechanisms that are now moving into implementation. Maintaining adequate country level capacity, expertise, and institutional knowledge will be essential to ensuring that this work continues to deliver tangible results. Moving towards self-reliance can reduce longer-term dependence on humanitarian assistance, but getting there requires sustained investment in national systems, livelihoods, partnerships, and the resilience of host communities. Continued international engagement therefore remains indispensable throughout this transition. Armenia remains committed to working closely with UNHCR and all partners to advance sustainable solutions and deliver tangible results for refugees and host communities alike.

Thank you.

Thank you, Armenia. We will now hear from Togo, to be followed by Belgium. Togo, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, President. My delegation extends its warmest congratulations to you. Togo aligns itself with the statements made by the Democratic Republic of Congo on behalf of the African Group and by Pakistan on behalf of the Organization for Islamic Cooperation. High Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, 75 years after the adoption of the 1951 Convention, the persistence of crisis and the shrinking humanitarian financing are sorely testing protection capacity. This calls for renewed international solidarity and a fairer sharing of responsibilities, in particular for those countries which are hosting an increased number of persons in need of protection. As a consequence of the insecurity in the Sahel, Togo, as of 30 September 2026, was hosting 64,837 refugees and asylum seekers from 30 nationalities. That is an increase of 17% as compared to August 2025. More than half of this population are children. Given this evolution, an early warning mechanism has been implemented, allowing us to anticipate arrivals and to speed up our response to these protection needs. Our joint response plan is part of an integrated approach, bringing together humanitarian action, development and peace consolidation measures. In the education sphere, the necessary documents for refugee children to go to school are issued free of charge, and the students benefit from the same enrollment conditions as nationals. The Avenir, future initiative, allows us to increase subsistence means of refugees and the Kozo project has allowed more than 4,000 refugees, mostly women, to benefit from technical financing support to develop income generating activities. Togo works with refugee communities and we have worked this year to build 15 houses for different families, allowing for refugees to be housed. Last year, it was 24 houses that we were able to build. That shows the Government's desire to really recognise the activities of host families and to bolster their hosting capacity. All of these actions are based on a fundamental belief that protecting refugees is not only providing them with shelter, but allowing them as well to rebuild their lives in dignity, in autonomy, whilst preserving the resilience of the host communities. President, Forced displacements go beyond borders, and no individual nation can tackle this on its own. So in this spirit, Togo hosted from the 9th to 11th of September 2026, the second ministerial meeting of the Lome Dialogue on Security and Refugee Protection. This meeting allowed us to conclude together with UNHCR, three tripartite agreements for voluntary return, which is safe and dignified for refugees whenever conditions permit it. This initiative illustrates the fact that we need strengthened regional cooperation and illustrates that security and protection are not indivisible. They are ones which they mutually reinforce each other, security and protection. We would like to thank the UNHCR's representatives in the field for their precious support in concluding these agreements and for their ongoing unwavering commitment to providing protection for persons in need in the region. We welcome the activities of all of the UNHCR team here and commend their efforts. The host country cannot shoulder this responsibility on its own. We call upon UNHCR, international partners, and financial institutions to make shared responsibilities into predictable, sustainable support for refugees, for host communities, and to promote reintegration. Togo reasserts its commitment to refugees. asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, and stateless persons. And we reaffirm our desire to strengthen our partnership with UNHCR. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Togo. We will now hear from the distinguished representative of Belgium, to be followed by the Philippines. Belgium, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair, High Commissioner, dear colleagues. Belgium aligns itself with the EU statement. At a time when forced displacement has reached unprecedented levels, while humanitarian resources continue to shrink, one principle must remain non-negotiable: the protection of people forced to flee. Belgium reiterates its strong support for UNHCR and its unique international protection mandate. For more than 70 years, UNHCR has played an indispensable role in safeguarding rights saving lives and helping millions of forcibly displaced people to rebuild their futures. As we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention, Belgium welcomes UNHCR's continued focus on international protection and on preserving the integrity of the global refugee protection regime. We encourage the organization to ensure that protection, expertise and capacity remain robust, visible and accessible across its operations. We recognize the unprecedented challenges UNHCR has faced in recent months and the difficult task of adapting to a profoundly altered operational and financial environment. At a time of growing displacement, rising humanitarian needs and severe funding constraints, difficult decisions have been unavoidable. We commend UNHCR's leadership and staff for navigating this period with transparency and for maintaining an open and constructive dialogue with Member States. High Commissioner, Belgium warmly welcomes you and appreciates the ambition reflected in your vision for the future of the Organization. We share the view that protection and solutions must go hand in hand and that humanitarian assistance, while essential, should not become the endpoint for people living in protracted displacement. We are encouraged by the ambition to accelerate durable solutions through the 50 by 35 vision and support efforts to strengthen self-reliance and inclusion. In this regard, Belgium underlines the importance of ensuring refugees' access to essential services, including education, healthcare, and social protection, as key enablers of self-reliance, inclusion, and durable solutions. We also welcome the emphasis on partnerships with development actors, international financial institutions, local organizations, and refugee-led organizations. We look forward to learning more about how this vision will be operationalized, including its implications for UNHCR's presence in the field, organizational structures, workforce, and resource allocations. Belgium remains committed to supporting UNHCR through predictable, flexible, and multi-year funding, and encourages other donors to do the same. Flexible funding is essential to enable effective responses to evolving crisis. Finally, Belgium believes that reform should reinforce, not weaken, UNHCR's core protection mandate. The ultimate measure of success will be the tangible difference made in the lives of refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons, and the communities that host them. A strong, field-oriented and protection-driven UNHCR remains indispensable more than ever. I thank you.

Thank you very much, Belgium. We will now hear from the Distinguished Representative of the Philippines, to be followed by Romania. Philippines, please, you have the floor.

Chair, High Commissioner, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates. The Philippines congratulates the Chair and commends the High Commissioner and UNHCR personnel, particularly those working closest to displaced communities, for their dedication under increasingly difficult conditions. As we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 65th anniversary of the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness, we are reminded that their value lies not only in the principles they established, but in the protection those principles make possible for real people. Today, that protection is under pressure from protracted displacement, shrinking humanitarian resources, and diminishing space for asylum. At such a moment, we must ensure that protection does not remain strong in principle while becoming narrower in practice. For the Philippines, That responsibility begins at home. Throughout our history, nearly 400,000 refugees have found refuge in the Philippines, reinforcing our humanitarian commitment to protection, dignity, and hope for those forced to flee. Today, we continue strengthening our asylum and protection systems, including access to education, healthcare, social protection, livelihoods, legal assistance, identification, and financial services. Education offers one example. Through our complementary pathways program, refugee students pursue higher education in Philippine universities, with women comprising nearly 30% of those admitted. We have also contributed $150,000 to UNHCR's Learning Without Borders initiative. Beyond enrollment and graduation, education creates opportunities for self-reliance, belonging, and durable solutions. What matters is not simply how many students enter or graduate, it is what education can make possible. Agency, self-reliance, belonging, and a wider range of solutions. On statelessness, our renewed national action plan covers 2026 to 2030. The Philippines also co-chairs the advisory committee on the Global Alliance to End Statelessness. These efforts reflect our conviction that responsibility must be shared according to national capacities and circumstances. Despite finite resources, the Philippines continues to contribute through protection, complementary pathways, support for stateless persons, and regional cooperation. That same conviction informs our regional approach. Under the Philippine ASEAN chairship, ASEAN leaders adopted the ASPEC framework to strengthen anticipatory, coordinated, and protection-centered humanitarian response. Regional solidarity requires mechanisms for collective action before crisis strike. Solidarity must translate into practical action, and responsibility must be genuinely shared, not merely shifted. We note the High Commissioner's 50 by 35 vision. and hope it translates into effective and efficient programs to strengthen international protection. As UNHCR confronts severe financial constraints, we support reform and efficiency. Yet scarcity should not define or redefine protection, nor should national ownership become an unfunded transfer of responsibility. We must not confuse diplomatic activity with substantive progress on the ground. We must ensure that the greatest possible share of available resources translates into protection and assistance for affected people and communities. The Philippines welcomes the Independent Management Review, emphasizing that reform must be measured not merely by administrative efficiency or financial savings, but by tangible improvements in the lives of refugees and stateless persons. We encourage clear accountability, measurable protection outcomes, and appropriate safeguards throughout implementation. Humanitarian institutions cannot substitute for political solutions. Durable solutions require addressing the conflicts and persecution that force displacement, enabling people to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity. Chair, our task, therefore, is larger than sustaining an institution. It is to sustain the international protection system itself, preserving asylum space, upholding non-refoulement, investing in solutions, supporting host communities, and broadening the community of states willing to share responsibility. The conventions are endured because generations of states understood that protection is a common responsibility. The test before us now is whether we can continue to translate that understanding into action when both resources and political space are under strain. Thank you.

Thank you, Philippines. Perfect timing on your part. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Romania, to be followed by Portugal. Romania, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair, Mr. High Commissioner, distinguished delegates. Romania is honored to take the floor at this year's Executive Committee session of UNHCR as we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention. 75 years after its adoption, the principles of the Convention remain as important as ever. Human dignity, access to asylum, the principle of non-refoulement, and effective protection for people fleeing persecution, war, or other serious threats must remain at the centre of our efforts. Chair, for Romania, these principles are not abstract. Since the beginning of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, Romania has remained committed to support those forces to fail and to ensuring their protection. As of the 51st of August 2025, Romania hosts almost 220,000 beneficiaries of temporary protection, the vast majority Ukrainian citizen. Moreover, Romania continued to support refugee integration by providing access to school, language courses, and psychological support, especially for Ukrainian children. Romania is also helping refugees enter the labor market through vocational training, employment programs, and support in finding jobs. At the same time, Romania has promoted refugee employment through initiatives such as European for Ukraine, Smart for Ukraine, and Jobs for Ukraine. These programs provide language and vocational training and connect refugees with employers. Despite challenges such as language barrier and qualification recognition, Romania continues to work to help refugees become independent. and contribute to the labor market. However, our responsibility goes beyond protection. Romania is increasingly focusing on inclusion, integration, and self-reliance. Education, employment, and skill are essential, helping refugees rebuild their lives with dignity and greater independence. We, therefore, strongly support UNHCR efforts that expand access to education, higher education, and scholarship, including the cooperation with Romanian universities. In 2026, UNHCR Romania has provided protection, counseling, and legal support to more than 7,100 refugees, while thousands more have benefited from community-based protection, livelihood, and employment services. Romania also remains committed to international responsibility sharing. The emergency transit center in Timisoara is a concrete example of our commitment. Since 2018, more than 5,400 refugees have been temporarily evacuated to Romania and assisted through the center, with over 4,500 afterwards resettled to other countries. Chair, Romania has recognized the serious financial and operational pressures facing UNHCR. As humanitarian needs continue to grow, predictable, flexible and sustainable funding is essential. At the same time, performance, transparency, accountability and effective prioritization remain important. Romania continues to support stronger cooperation among UN agencies, international organizations, national authorities, civil society, and other partners. In this spirit, Romania supports the objective of the UN aid reform process and believes that a more effective and coordinated UN system can strengthen protection and assistance for people in need. Romania believes that continued attention must be given to those most at risk, particularly children, women, and persons with disabilities, while ensuring access to information, legal assistance, health care, education, and essential services. At the same time, addressing the root cause of forced displacement remains crucial through conflict prevention, respect for international law, peaceful building and strengthening of resilience. Chair, Romania experience has reinforced our belief that the refugees protection depends on international cooperation and genuine responsibility sharing. No country or community should be left to respond to displacement alone. Our message is clear. Protection must remain At the center, education and employment must be part of the solution. Funding must reach those who need it most. And responsibility sharing must remain a shared commitment. To conclude, Romania stands ready to continue working with UNHCR, Member States, and all partners to turn this principle into practical solution. and to ensure that people forced to flee are met not only with safety and protection, but also with dignity, opportunity, and the possibility of a new beginning. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you, Romania. Colleagues, we have four speakers left on our list, and then we will return to the podium and to the High Commissioner to to comment. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Portugal, to be followed by Burkina Faso. Portugal, sir, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Portugal aligns itself with the statements delivered by the European Union and by Sao Tome and Principe on behalf of the community of Portuguese-speaking countries, and thanks the High Commissioner for his opening statement. At the outset, allow me to pay tribute to the dedication of UNHCR personnel, continue to serve refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons and internally displaced people under increasingly volatile operational circumstances marked by worryingly high levels of displacement, severe financial constraints, institutional transformation and increasing attacks on humanitarian personnel. Their professionalism, commitment and expertise remain indispensable to the fulfilment of UNHCR's mandate. We also recognize the High Commissioner and his team's determination and leadership at a particularly demanding moment for the international refugee protection regime. As we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention, Portugal wishes to reaffirm its unwavering support for UNHCR's protection mandate and for the international refugee protection regime as a cornerstone of the multilateral system. We remain deeply committed to safeguarding the right to seek asylum, to upholding international refugee law, including the principle of non-refoulement, and to ensuring that the protection-centered approach remains at the core of our collective response to forced displacement particularly as the challenges associated with mixed movements and increasing migratory pressures require a whole-of-route approach. Portugal, therefore, welcomes the High Commission's emphasis on practical cooperation, international solidarity and responsibility sharing as essential elements for preserving the integrity and sustainability of the international protection regime. Chair, Portugal also recognizes the High Commissioner's 50 by 35 vision as a way of advancing a more sustainable approach to protracted displacement, including in the framework of operationalizing the humanitarian development peace nexus. By focusing on inclusion, self-reliance, and durable solutions, it rightly seeks to move beyond the management of displacement and towards enabling refugees to rebuild their lives with dignity. At the same time, this vision serves as a reminder that durable solutions must work hand in hand with addressing the root causes of forced displacements, including violence, instability, climate change, violations of human rights, and the absence of political solutions to conflicts. Humanitarian action can mitigate suffering, but it cannot be a substitute for peace. Portugal encourages UNHCR to continue consulting and engaging closely with Member States as well as development partners and other relevant stakeholders as it further develops and implements 50x35 vision across the organization and also in the field. We believe that transparent dialogue will be essential to ensuring common understanding of objectives, priorities, resource implications and implementation modalities. Chair, Portugal has taken good note of the High Commissioner's commitment to transforming UNHCR into a more agile, efficient, field-oriented organization, as well as his determination to ensure that scarce resources are directed where they can achieve the greatest impact. In this regard, we would welcome further information on the implementation of the recommendations emerging from the External Independent Management Review, and how these will intersect with the broader transformation processes currently underway across the UN system, namely the UN 18 initiative and the humanitarian reset. Understanding how these different reform tracks will reinforce one another will be important for Member States as we collectively seek to ensure that UNHCR remains fully equipped to continue delivering on its mandate. Chair, Portugal remains firmly committed to advancing a comprehensive and rights-based approach to asylum and international protection, including at the national level, one that balances solidarity with responsibility. Since 2024, Portugal has enacted a series of legislative, institutional, and administrative reforms designed to create the conditions for more coherent and operational asylum procedures, articulated between international protection obligations reception conditions and effective and inclusive integration policies. These efforts have also been undertaken with a view to ensuring the effective implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum and to strengthen the capacity of national institutions to provide timely, fair and sustainable responses to those in need of protection. I finish, Chair, As we look ahead to the Global Refugee Forum in 2027, Portugal stands ready to work with UNHCR, States, and all relevant partners to turn commitments into tangible outcomes for refugees and host communities. We remain fully convinced that international solidarity, effective multilateral cooperation, and respect for international law are indispensable to protect people, promote solutions, and preserve human dignity. I thank you.

Thank you very much, Ambassador. We will now turn to the distinguished representative of Burkina Faso, to be followed by Bangladesh. Burkina Faso, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, President. President, High Commissioner, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Burkina Faso takes part in the work of this 77th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee with the hope that The conclusions of our discussions will further contribute to finding fairer, more effective, and more sustainable solutions for the 118 million persons who are affected by the phenomenon of forcible displacement throughout the world. My delegation aligns itself with the statement made for the African group by the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I wish first and foremost to convey the warmest greetings from our comrade President Head of State Captain Ibrahim Traore, who is firmly committed to defending the humanitarian cause, a noble combat to restore security and human dignity for all populations exposed to situations of vulnerability. I also wish to express our full gratitude to the High Commissioner, Mr. Baham Salhi. His introductory statement illustrated the scope of the constant commitment of UNHCR to work alongside states and the populations affected. And we saw this in its recent visit to the Sahel, to Mali and Burkina Faso. And we thank him and the Regional Director for having focused on the Sahel the region. President, in this year of the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention, Burkina Faso reasserts its commitment to the principles of non-refoulement, access to asylum, to registration, to documentation, and to essential services, as well as the inclusion of refugees in social protection. For Burkina Faso, Protecting forcibly displaced persons is an urgent humanitarian need, is a legal obligation, and also a shared responsibility. This responsibility commands us to provide the necessary assistance, but also requires us to deal with the root causes that compelled millions of persons to leave their homes Our commitment is rooted in the conventions and international instruments that Burkina Faso has freely acceded to. It is rooted in the values of the popular progressist revolution, which is social justice, active solidarity, human dignity and inclusion. For our people, protection cannot only mean managing displacements, it must restore dignity, it must strengthen autonomy and open up the path towards sustainable solutions. Our action is based on the national strategy for internally displaced persons and host communities. the Relance Plan 2026-2030, and the future national strategy for local integration of refugees 2027-2030. It involves IDPs, refugees, repatriated Burkina Be citizens, and the host communities. We commend the major progress achieved, in particular the recent conclusion of tripartite agreements with UNHCR, Benin, Ghana and Togo to facilitate the voluntary return, which is safe and dignified, and the adoption of the new code of persons in the family which is an essential tool to prevent statelessness and to promote the right to a legal identity. President, our experience in managing forced displacements brings us to one clear conclusion, which is that security and safety are a precondition for sustainable protection. In the Sahel, terrorism remains a major cause of forced displacement. Combating terrorism is preventing displacement, restoring essential services, and creating the right conditions conducive for voluntary, safe, sustainable return. And it is our sovereign commitment to coordinate the work of the countries of the Confederation of Sahel States, this alliance which brings us together through our international obligations to secure our land and to allow our populations to live in dignity in their countries. Burkina Faso calls for a specific, tangible renewal of international protection articulated around three priorities. That is, to act on the profound root causes of displacement, supporting security and stabilization and social cohesion efforts and state development, to guarantee predictable financing to support national systems, host communities and sustainable solutions, and thirdly and finally, to align interventions with national priorities. bolstering the capacity of local actors and respecting the sovereign choices of the affected countries. President, I wish to conclude my speech by reiterating the gratitude of the Burkina Faso government to humanitarian actors, in particular the UNHCR. 75 years after the adoption of the 1951 Convention, we must move from the declared solidarity to commitments being respected. Long live solidarity between peoples. Ahaa and Odeth, we shall win through. Thank you.

Thank you, Burkina Faso. I now pass the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh, to be followed by our last speaker, Cambodia. Bangladesh, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, High Commissioner Mr. Barham Salih, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. At the outset, let me congratulate Mr. Grhams Salif on assuming the responsibility of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. We appreciate his steadfast commitment to the organization's mandate and his thoughtful reflections on forced displacement, particularly his emphasis on advancing durable solutions through voluntary repatriation. Mr. Chair, forced displacement continues to rise even amid peacetime persecution, persistent conflicts, geopolitical fragmentation, and increasing pressure on the international humanitarian system. Bangladesh welcomes the High Commissioner's call for renewed momentum in implementing the Global Compact on Refugees and looks forward to the Global Refugee Forum in 2027. We also urge for stronger international cooperation, equitable burden and responsibility sharing with predictable resources and tangible support for forcibly displaced people and host communities. The 2027 Forum should translate international solidarity into concrete progress towards durable solutions acceptable to host countries. Mr. Chair, as a country hosting a large number of forcibly displaced Rohingyas, let me highlight a few key points. First, the continued decline in humanitarian financing is a serious concern. Funding constraints must not determine the level of protection and assistance required, and international solidarity must translate into sustained support for displaced populations and host communities. Bangladesh has been hosting over 1.2 million forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals, despite our own economic, social, and climate vulnerabilities. The joint response plan sought over US$934 million into 2025, while the 2026 appeal has been reduced to about US$710 million, covering only minimum lifesaving needs. This downward trend is untenable. Appreciating the contributions of donors and partners, Bangladesh urges more predictable and sustainable humanitarian assistance while advancing their return to Myanmar. Second, climate change, including extreme weather events, environmental degradation and loss of livelihoods, is increasingly compounding the drivers and impacts of forced displacement. We call for enhanced international cooperation and dedicated resources to strengthen climate resilience in countries hosting large displaced populations. Given our own acute climate vulnerabilities, climate finance and international support is particularly important for Bangladesh. Third, we welcome the High Commissioner's emphasis that humanitarian assistance cannot become the endpoint for people living in displacement for years or decades. As mentioned by our Prime Minister during the recently concluded High-Level Week of the 81st UNGA, quote, Humanitarian generosity cannot become an excuse for political inaction, nor can Bangladesh be expected to shoulder this responsibility indefinitely." Bangladesh supports renewed attention to durable solutions and addressing the root causes of forced displacement. Fourth, while taking note of the High Commissioner's vision of 50 by 35, we underscore that reducing aid dependency must not come at the expense of durable solutions acceptable to host countries. Proposals concerning self-reliance, formal education, and livelihood opportunities in host countries risk creating conditions for prolonged displacement, may directly contradict national policies, and undermine the prospects for early and voluntary return. Finally, we appreciate the transformation underway within UNHCR to make the organization more agile, efficient, focused, and field-oriented. Bangladesh recognizes the need for effective use of scarce resources and emphasizes that such reforms must preserve UNHCR's mandate, capacity, expertise, and field presence necessary to respond to humanitarian needs. Mr. Chair, as conflicts and humanitarian needs grow, we call for renewed international solidarity to ensure equitable burden sharing, strengthen support to host countries, and advance durable solutions. For Bangladesh, this means enabling the Rohingyas to return to their homeland without further delay. We call upon the international community, ASEAN, the UN, and all relevant partners to identify efforts towards their early and sustainable repatriation. Bangladesh remains committed to working closely with the UNHCR and all partners towards this objective. I thank you.

Thank you very much, Bangladesh. We will now hear from the Distinguished Representative of Cambodia. Cambodia, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair, High Commissioner, At the outset, my delegation wishes to thank the High Commissioner for his opening statement and warmly welcome him to his first session of the Executive Committee. As a State party to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, Cambodia reaffirms its commitment to international refugee protection and its long-standing cooperation with UNHCR. We are deeply concerned by the growing scale and complexity of forced displacement worldwide. Armed conflict, violence, persecution, human rights violations, disaster and the adverse effects of climate change continue to force millions of people from their homes, placing increasing pressure on affected countries and communities. Against this backdrop, Cambodia commends UNHCR for its continued efforts to protect refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced, and stateless persons. We appreciate the dedication of UNHCR and its partners in providing protection and humanitarian assistance and pursuing durable solutions, often under severe resource constraints. Chair, Cambodia has continued to experience the serious humanitarian consequences of conflict induced displacement. At its high in December 2025, the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict has displaced approximately 650,000 Cambodians, while homes, schools, health facilities, roads, bridges, electricity infrastructure, and religious and cultural sites suffered extensive damage. Although the ceasefire holds, More than 20,000 Cambodians are currently unable to return to their homes due to the continued occupation of areas of Cambodian territory by Thai armed force and the obstruction of access to their homes and community. The continued destruction of Cambodian homes and infrastructure in this area further undermines prospects for their return. Such occupation and continued destruction of Cambodian property constitute a serious violation of Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and it's contrary to the purpose and principle of the United Nations Charter. Despite substantial relief assistance and support from the Royal Government of Cambodia and international partners, those who remain displaced continue to face significant humanitarian challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, livelihoods, and other essential services. To this end, Cambodia stressed the urgent need for full implementation in good faith and in their entirety, the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration of 26 October 2025 and the Joint Statement of the Third Special General Border Committee Meeting of 27 December 2025, Cambodia reiterated its call on Thailand to respond to our repeated requests to resume dialogue through existing mechanisms, to facilitate the safe and dignified return of displaced Cambodians, and to avoid further destroying Cambodian property and infrastructure that are currently occupied by Thai armed forces. Cambodia also encourages UNHCR, in accordance with relevant UN General Assembly resolutions and in close coordination with the Royal Government of Cambodia and relevant UN agencies, to support efforts to address the humanitarian and protection needs of displaced Cambodians and contribute to durable solutions, including their safe and dignified return to their homes. Here, preventing forced displacement, whether across international borders or within national boundaries, requires full respect for the UN Charter, international law, and the commitment to peaceful settlement of disputes. Commitment to peace and dialogue must be matched by concrete action on the ground. While the growing humanitarian needs are placing increasing pressure, on UNHCR's limited resources. We call for adequate, predictable and sustainable funding to enable UNHCR to fulfill its mandate effectively. Finally, we fully support UNHCR's reform and we remain committed to working constructively with the UNHCR and the international community to strengthen international protection and advance durable solutions. I thank you.

I thank Cambodia, and indeed I thank all delegations who have spoken. The situation is now that we are close to 6:00. We were returning to the High Commissioner, who has promised to give a brief response, and with the indulgence of the interpreters, I think we can get this done no later than 5 past 6. High Commissioner, please.

I take my cue, Mr. Chairman. I will try to be as brief as I can. Thank you, Algeria, for your clear statement and recalling that the Convention's promise has to remain exactly because international assistance and international protections are not acts of charity, but fundamental rights to which refugees are entitled. UNHCR will continue carrying out its responsibilities in this regard, based on its mandate, globally, including in the Tandoof camps with this humanitarian mandate. While humanitarian assistance must be available where needed, I will reiterate the need for us, for all of us, collectively to work together to advance durable solutions when feasible, and it has to be based always on free, informed, and voluntary choices of refugees. France Thank you for your steadfast support for UNHCR's protection mandate and the Convention, as well as responsibility sharing under the GCR. Your call on supporting the Convention is particularly appreciated. I particularly welcome France's substantial, flexible and underfunded operating and funding Our operations, you're rightly underlining that humanitarian action cannot substitute for political actions. I also welcome France's support for expanding durable solutions, inclusion, education, and access to livelihoods, and for our, uh, ambition to reduce long-term dependency. Achieving this will require closer work with development actors and private sector and host governments. And your message on reform is also important. We must make UNHCR more resilient and efficient while safeguarding our core mandate. To Armenia, I say thank you for your thoughtful statement and continued partnership with UNHCR. Armenia's response to displacement shows the importance of moving from emergency assistance towards sustainable inclusion in national systems, and I welcome the Inclusive Livelihood National Framework, particularly its focus on employment skills and economic opportunities for refugees. And The UNHCR will continue to partner with you, delivering during this transition. I consider this to be important. I thank you, Togo, for your statement and for flagging out early warning mechanisms you have set up. Your inclusive approach, especially on education, has been noted with much appreciation. The housing efforts to bolster capacity of hosting communities while supporting refugees is also to live together with them in dignity is very much welcomed to Belgium. I thank you for highlighting our unique protection mandate and recognizing the difficult challenges we have faced. and making difficult decisions unavoidable. We have tried to do this work in full transparency. Thank you for recognizing that. Accelerating durable solutions and strengthened efforts to build resilience and self-sufficiency indeed will be critical going forward. And thank you for flagging this out. We will engage with everyone. as the work advances on implementing this vision. And we will also keep our compass on protection as we carry out our reforms. As you rightly said, success is a tangible difference in the lives of refugees and communities that host them. A strong protection and field-based UNHCR is indeed our objective. Thank you, Philippines, for recognizing and indeed that protection is under pressure. Uh, we cannot become narrower in practice, but we have to be, uh, uh, really realistic about what we are able to do. We don't have to remain committed to the principles, but we also need to recognize the real strains on the system. Your complementary pathway programs on education with 30% being women is just wonderful. Thank you. Education is indeed our agent, is about agency, self-reliance and belonging. I look to you as a strong partner as we launch our Aiming Higher initiative. To Romania, I thank you. for your steadfast commitment to refugee protection and inclusion, and I particularly welcome your strong emphasis on education from access to schools and language learning to higher education and scholarships, recognizing these essential pathways to self-reliance and opportunity. And I hope we can rely on you to provide direct support to our IMEN Higher Initiative. To Portugal, I thank you for recognizing the UNHCR staff and the amazing work that they perform. Your commitment to upholding the right to seek asylum is... highly, highly important. As your support to a route-based approach in responding to mixed movements, your support to 50 by 35 is appreciated, as is your call for durable solutions and peace. And under reform, we will continue to engage in with everyone on the implementation of the internal management review, noting that we have strongly aimed to have UNHAT and the humanitarian resets and efforts embedded directly in our reform agenda at UNHCR. To Burkina Faso, I would say thank you for your strong commitment on international protection and access to asylum, documentation and inclusion. I've seen that firsthand during my visit there two, three weeks ago. I welcome emphasis on durable solutions that restores dignity and self-reliance. and the participation of displaced people and returnees and host communities. The recent tripartite agreement to support voluntary and safe, dignified returns, as well as efforts to prevent statelessness and strengthen legal identity, are important steps and are highly appreciated. I thank Bangladesh for its continued hosting for over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees. Bangladesh rightly highlights three urgent issues, the decline in humanitarian funding, the added pressures of climate vulnerability, and the need for durable solutions. International support must remain predictable and sufficient to protect both refugees and host communities. And I agree, the voluntary, safe, dignified, sustainable return of Rohingyas to Myanmar remains the preferred option. This requires addressing the root causes and ensuring conditions in Myanmar allow returnees to live securely and exercise their rights. To Cambodia, I thank you for reaffirming commitment to the refugee protection and for your support for UNHCR's mandates and reform. I note your concerns over the humanitarian impact of display and displacement along the Cambodian Thai border. The priorities must be protection, access to essential services and conditions that enable voluntary and safe, dignified, sustainable returns. UNHCR stands ready in coordination with Cambodia, relevant UN partners and all concerned actors to support protection and durable solution efforts in line with our mandate. Peaceful dialogue, respect for international law, and predictable humanitarian funding remain essential to addressing the needs and preventing further displacement. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Well done, High Commissioner. Thank you very much. Before we adjourn, we will hear an announcement from the excellent Anne Keohane. Anne, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chairperson, distinguished delegates. I wish to inform you that the side event Strengthening national systems and expanding opportunities, education, health, social protection and economic inclusion will take place tomorrow morning at 8:30 a.m. in Concordia Room 1, located on level 2 below us. Good evening and thank you.

Thank you very much. We will start again at 10 a.m. tomorrow. This meeting is adjourned. Thank you very much.