Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, has inaugurated the Global Refugee Forum in Geneva.
He used this platform to advocate for increased solidarity with refugees and improved funding for humanitarian organisations.
On Wednesday, the UN official criticised the measures taken by certain governments to exclude refugees, either by erecting border walls and fences or by delegating asylum procedures to other nations. However, he refrained from naming any specific country.
Mr Grandi made a passionate appeal to the approximately 3,000 participants at the three-day forum, stating, “Let refugees not be forgotten." He emphasised that refugees deserve the opportunity to work and contribute to the common good in their host countries.
He further revealed that globally, 114 million people are fleeing conflict and violence. He added that three-quarters of those who had fled their home countries found refuge in neighbouring countries with low or middle income.
The forum, which is being held for the second time since 2019, has representatives from aid organisations and governments, along with around 300 refugees. Svenja Schulze, the Development Minister, is participating on behalf of Germany.
The focus of the forum is on sustainable solutions for refugees, aid for host countries, better integration opportunities, and effective strategies to combat the causes of flight.