The UN Refugee Agency, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees alongside the South African government, refugees, civil society partners, and members of the diplomatic community, have officially marked World Refugee Day by paying tribute to those forcibly displaced by conflict and persecution worldwide.

This year’s commemoration holds historic weight, as it concurrently marks the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention, the foundational cornerstone of international refugee protection.

Speaking at the opening of a high-level dialogue in South Africa to commemorate both milestones, UNHCR South Africa Multi-Country Office Representative Kavita Belani reminded attendees of the enduring importance of international frameworks.

"Seventy-five years ago, the international community made a solemn promise, that anyone forced to flee conflict or persecution would have the right to seek safety and rebuild their lives. This commitment remains as urgent and relevant today as it was then,” said Belani.

She praised the host nation's legislative approach to integration, noting that South Africa serves as a powerful example of this commitment in practice. Over the years, the country has provided vital protection and assistance to tens of thousands of refugees, she noted.

"Its progressive legal and policy frameworks reflect a fundamental truth that refugees are not a burden," Belani added.

"They are part of the social, economic, and cultural fabric of society."

Delegates and speakers at the high-level dialogue strongly emphasised the need to transition away from short-term emergency responses.

Key priorities highlighted by the panel included integrating refugees into national systems to ensure seamless access to essential public services, creating viable avenues for employment and entrepreneurship and expanding economic and legal pathways so displaced individuals can independently rebuild their lives.

In the local context, speakers pointed to the traditional African philosophy of ubuntu, as a powerful, enduring foundation for solidarity with those forced to flee.

At a time of growing social and economic pressures globally, attendees noted that promoting solidarity, respecting human dignity, and building mutual trust are essential to ensuring peaceful, cohesive communities for everyone.

According to the newly released UNHCR 2026 Global Trends Report, an estimated 117.8-million people were forcibly displaced globally by the end of 2025. This staggering total includes 41.6-million recognised refugees and 9-million active asylum-seekers.

While overall refugee numbers experienced a slight decline toward the end of the reporting period, millions of individuals continue to live in protracted displacement.

Data shows that nearly 70% of refugees remain in exile for decades.

Regionally, Southern Africa continues to shoulder significant humanitarian responsibilities. Nations supported by UNHCR’s South Africa Multi-Country Office currently host over 168 000 forcibly displaced and stateless people.

This figure reflects both the region’s ongoing geographic role as a sanctuary and the shared community efforts required to support vulnerable populations.