75th Anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention: UNHCR announces year of action and dialogue

GENEVA - Throughout 2026, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is embarking on a series of national, regional, and global dialogues to mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention.

Far from a traditional commemorative exercise, this milestone year is designed as a practical, forward-looking process to renew international commitment to refugee protection. These dialogues come at a critical juncture as the global asylum system faces unprecedented pressure. Beyond the high levels of forced displacement, the system is strained by chronic under-resourcing while access to safety is becoming increasingly restricted, making the fundamental principles of the Convention more vital than ever.

"For 75 years, the 1951 Convention has saved millions of lives and protected fundamental rights, providing a vital framework for refugees to find safety and rebuild their lives. As we mark this anniversary, our goal is to ensure this legacy continues to translate into dignity and inclusion for refugees, and tangible contributions to the communities that host them," said Ruven Menikdiwela, UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner for Protection.

The 2026 dialogues are structured around ten core actions - areas where stronger political commitment and practical cooperation are most urgently needed, including:

1. Strengthening commitment to the international refugee protection framework
2. Enhancing the fairness and efficiency of asylum systems
3. Addressing mixed and onward movements of refugees through route-based, lawful approaches
4. Addressing security challenges in line with protection standards
5. Strengthening protection partnerships with States and communities
6. Expanding refugee access to work, education, sponsorship and family reunification
7. Strengthening inclusive national systems and refugee self-reliance
8. Increasing support for voluntary return and reintegration
9. Pursuing opportunities for local integration
10. Promoting the meaningful participation of refugees and stateless people.

By focusing on concrete challenges and regional successes, these dialogues aim to bridge the gap between legal principles and the lived realities of refugees and their host communities.

The process will culminate in the High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection in December 2026. The recommendations gathered throughout the year will directly shape the new Agenda for the Future of Protection and Solutions to be published in early 2027.

As the national, regional and global dialogues shape the substantive framework for the 75th milestone, UNHCR is also developing a global communications campaign to engage the public and key champions in renewing commitment to the values and spirit of the Convention. The campaign will officially launch on World Refugee Day and, together with the new Framework on Protection and Solutions, will build vital momentum toward the next Global Refugee Forum in 2027.

"UNHCR invites States, civil society, refugees, the private sector, cities and local authorities, faith-based actors, and development partners to join this year-long journey. The 75th anniversary is not just a look back at a landmark treaty - it is a collective commitment to ensure that the 1951 Refugee Convention remains resilient, adaptable, and human-centred in the face of today's challenges," Menikdiwela added.

Key dates and activities

• 20 June 2026: World Refugee Day
• 28 July 2026: 75th anniversary date of the signing of the 1951 Convention on the Status of Refugees
• December 2026: the High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection in Geneva