In a significant development, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi is set to visit Stockholm from June 3-4, engaging in crucial discussions with Swedish government officials to address the escalating global refugee crisis. The meeting comes as the number of forcibly displaced people is expected to reach record levels of over 122 million in 2025.
Sweden has a long-standing partnership with the UNHCR and is one of its largest donors. In 2024, Sweden’s total humanitarian support to the UNHCR amounted to over SEK 1.4 billion, making it the organisation’s third-largest donor outright.
Challenges Facing Global Development Assistance
The global refugee situation has worsened, with more people forced to leave their homes due to conflicts becoming more numerous, protracted, and violent. The UNHCR works globally to protect people who have been forced to flee from war, conflict, persecution, or natural disasters.
- The UNHCR is supporting the return of 500,000 Syrians in Syria since the Assad regime collapsed in December 2004.
- In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the UNHCR assists refugees with shelter and protection-related interventions, including for women and girls who have been subjected to gender-based and sexual violence.
- The UNHCR is also an important crisis response actor in Ukraine, working towards early reconstruction and long-term solutions to the refugee situation.
Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa welcomed High Commissioner Grandi’s visit, stating that Sweden prioritises women, girls, and LGBTIQ refugees who are some of the most vulnerable refugee groups. He also appreciated the UNHCR’s assistance with returns and discussions on innovative solutions.
Government Priorities
The Government’s work to support displaced people, build capacity in host countries, and increase refugee quotas is an important aspect of its foreign policy. Minister for Migration Johan Forssell expressed his appreciation for the UNHCR’s assistance with returns and discussions on innovative solutions.
Diplomatic Significance
Mr Grandi’s visit to Stockholm will be his last in Sweden as High Commissioner for Refugees, marking the end of a decade-long leadership assignment. The meeting highlights the significance of Sweden’s partnership with the UNHCR and its commitment to addressing the global refugee crisis.
The visit underscores the crucial role that international cooperation plays in responding to the escalating humanitarian challenges worldwide. As the world grapples with the consequences of conflict, climate change, and social inequality, diplomatic efforts like this meeting will be essential in shaping a more equitable and just future for all.