UNHCR secures record $1.5 billion in early funding for 2025
Package included 1.143 billion USD from donor governments along with a commitment of 355 million USD from UNHCRprivate sector National partners. This gives the agency 15% of its expected needs next year.
Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, said: “We live in a world ravaged by brutal and seemingly endless conflicts, which have separated many and displaced people. into a desperate flight in search of safety.” “Today’s strong support for refugees and other displaced people creates a much-needed message of solidarity and humanity.”.
Global response
The governments of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia and Ireland once again demonstrated their support by pledging flexible funding, allowing UNHCR to quickly deliver aid in new emergencies and responding to capital shortage situations.
The United States led commitments with $200 million, followed by Denmark and Sweden, while Armenia, Bulgaria and Lithuania emerged as new or enhanced donors, expanding their donor base.
Looking beyond immediate relief, Donor governments have secured an additional $283 million for 2026 and beyond. This forward-looking funding is important because refugees now face an average displacement period of 20 years, with many remaining displaced for decades.
“Although generous, humanitarian funding has not kept pace with growing needs”, Mr. Grandi emphasized. “As peace becomes more elusive and conflict and repression continue to force millions to flee their homes, we are facing a dire situation, with few solutions and crises The crisis is escalating more and more.”
Global challenges persist
The funding comes at a critical time, as recent conflict, repression and violence in Sudan, Ukraine and Lebanon have intensified, forcing millions to flee their homes. Millions more have been displaced for decades, fleeing bloodshed and instability in Myanmar, Syria and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
UNCHR’s 2024 operational impact demonstrates the importance of sustained support.
Through targeted interventions, the agency has individually registered more than 3 million people, provided 1.2 million with identification documents and provided essential legal assistance to more than 500,000 individuals. 5.6 million people received support to access water and sanitation services and 630,000 people received shelter and housing support.
future plans
UNHCR Global appeal is currently seeking a total of $10.248 billion in funding for 2025, to address displaced and stateless people.
“Humanitarian aid must focus on reducing dependency, helping displaced communities thrive, not just survive”, Mr. Grandi emphasized.
The agency plans to improve efficiency through innovative approaches, including promoting refugee participation in national services following successful examples in Uganda, Colombia and Kenya as well as following pursue long-term solutions such as voluntary repatriation, local integration and resettlement.
As extreme weather disasters increase and conflict continues, these early funding commitments give UNHCR greater confidence in maintaining vital assistance and protection programs for vulnerable groups. the world’s most vulnerable populations.
“The commitments made are one that saves lives, restores dignity and gives hope to millions of people forced to flee,” Mr. Grandi concluded. “This support will be vital as we face unprecedented challenges in the year ahead.”
