Brussels, 19 June 2023 (TDI): On the occasion of World Refugee Day, the European Commission and the High Representative have released a joint statement emphasizing the European Union’s unwavering commitment to providing protection and support to refugees worldwide.
With over 110 million forcibly displaced individuals globally, the EU pledges to continue its role as a leading humanitarian and development donor while intensifying efforts to ensure a safe haven for refugees within its borders.
In the joint statement, the two officials stated that the European Union recognizes the dire situation faced by millions of refugees and forcibly displaced persons, particularly those caught in conflicts or humanitarian crises in countries such as Afghanistan, Syria, Venezuela, Myanmar, Yemen, South Sudan, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Burkina Faso.
More than 110 million people are displaced around the world.
On #WorldRefugeeDay, we reiterate the EU’s commitment to improve the situation of millions of refugees caught up in conflicts or major humanitarian crises.
Joint statement with HR/VP @JosepBorrellF ↓
— European Commission (@EU_Commission) June 20, 2023
EU’s contribution for refugees
The EU’s comprehensive aid initiatives encompass life-saving provisions such as food, shelter, education, healthcare, and livelihood support, aiming to improve the circumstances of those affected.
While the majority of forcibly displaced individuals reside outside the EU, the European Union also supports a significant number of refugees within its Member States. Notably, with the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, EU Member States are currently providing temporary protection to approximately 4 million people from Ukraine, with over half being women and children.
The EU also extends protection and humanitarian assistance to internally displaced persons in Ukraine, as well as refugees from Ukraine in the Republic of Moldova.
Recognizing the arduous and perilous journeys undertaken by refugees in search of safety and a better future, the EU is committed to comprehensive action that prevents loss of life and establishes orderly and secure pathways for migration.
Collaborating with Member States and international partners, the EU focuses on resettlement and complementary pathways, increasing admission places from priority regions.
In this regard, the European Commission launched the EU resettlement and humanitarian admission scheme on May 10, 2023, initiating the new pledging exercise for 2024-2025.
The European Union eagerly anticipates the forthcoming Global Refugee Forum in December 2023, recognizing it as a vital opportunity to enhance global responsibility-sharing.
To effectively address the multifaceted challenges of forced displacement, the EU emphasizes the need for intensified efforts and collaborative partnerships among all stakeholders.
Highlighting the fundamental importance of the right to seek and enjoy asylum and the principle of non-refoulment, enshrined in the 1951 Refugee Convention and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, the EU reaffirms its commitment to upholding these principles at all times.
Furthermore, the EU and its Member States make substantial contributions to global resettlement initiatives. Since 2015, EU resettlement schemes have provided a safe haven for over 115,000 vulnerable refugees in EU Member States.
Additionally, nearly 45,000 Afghans at risk have been admitted to the EU since 2021. Member States have until mid-September 2023 to submit their pledges for the 2023-2024 pledging exercise.
New pledges
The European Commission remains dedicated to supporting Member States with operational and legislative instruments.
Through the New Pact on Migration and Asylum, the EU aims to strengthen the management of asylum applications, safeguard refugees and those in need of international protection, and support host countries.
The European Commission actively supports co-legislators in finalizing negotiations on the Pact by February 2024, in accordance with the Joint Roadmap.
As World Refugee Day reminds the world of the plight faced by millions of forcibly displaced individuals, the joint statement by the European Commission and the High Representative serves as a powerful reminder of the EU’s commitment to fostering compassion, protection, and resilience in the face of the global refugee crisis.
