ISLAMABAD, Friday, June 20, 2025 (WNP): On the occasion of World Refugee Day, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Pakistan reaffirmed its solidarity with millions of people around the globe who have been forcibly displaced due to conflict, persecution, and violence.
Under this year’s theme — “Solidarity with Refugees” — UNHCR issued a powerful call to action for compassion, support, and inclusion of refugees and displaced persons worldwide.
Pakistan, home to more than 2.35 million Afghan refugees, including registered Proof of Registration (PoR) cardholders and others in need of protection, continues to be recognized internationally for its long-standing generosity and hospitality toward displaced populations.
Despite the rising number of global displacement cases, humanitarian funding remains stagnant and, in some cases, is declining. As of the end of 2024, 123 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced, including 42.7 million refugees and others in need of international protection. That figure means one in every 67 people on Earth is currently displaced.
Speaking on the occasion, Philippa Candler, UNHCR Representative in Pakistan, paid tribute to the resilience and courage of refugees across the globe. “World Refugee Day is a time to reflect on the heartbreaking stories of loss and pain faced by refugees,” she said. “Sadly, in many parts of the world, the right to seek asylum is under growing threat. Stricter policies and diminishing political will are making it increasingly difficult for people fleeing violence and persecution to find safety.”
Candler lauded Pakistan for consistently standing by refugees and for providing sanctuary to Afghan populations for over four decades. “Pakistan has shown the world what true solidarity looks like. At a time when asylum spaces are shrinking globally, Pakistan remains a beacon of compassion,” she said.
She reaffirmed UNHCR’s commitment to working closely with the Government of Pakistan in seeking durable solutions, including voluntary repatriation, resettlement, and alternative legal pathways, while also ensuring protection for those who continue to need asylum.
Calling on the global community, Candler urged greater support and burden-sharing. “We appeal to the international community to match Pakistan’s longstanding generosity with increased solidarity, responsibility-sharing, and resources.”
World Refugee Day, observed annually on June 20, honors the strength and resilience of refugees and displaced individuals and highlights the urgent need for global cooperation to address the causes and consequences of forced displacement.
