On 28 July 2026, the European Commission and the High Representative issued a joint statement marking the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, reaffirming the EU's full commitment to the Convention's values and principles. The statement underscores the EU's dedication to ensuring that refugee protection remains anchored in EU and partner countries' legislation, international law, and multilateral cooperation.
The statement highlights the Convention's role as the essential legal framework for refugee protection, setting out the rights of those forced to flee and the obligations of states. It notes the Convention's profound global impact in safeguarding millions of lives and upholding the principle that people fleeing persecution must be treated with dignity. The EU also stresses the importance of respect for international humanitarian law in preventing and reducing forced displacement caused by armed conflict, and recognises the indispensable role of humanitarian organisations operating in accordance with humanitarian principles.
The EU reiterates its support for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), whose mandate remains essential in addressing global displacement challenges. The EU has actively contributed to the development of the Global Compact on Refugees and is engaged in its practical implementation.
The statement references the first European Asylum and Migration Management Strategy, which reiterates the EU's commitment to being a space that protects people fleeing war and persecution. The Pact on Migration and Asylum, which entered into application in June 2026, reflects a comprehensive whole-of-route approach to migration management. As part of the Pact, the EU has a framework for voluntary humanitarian admission and resettlements, with over 10,000 pledges in the 2026-2027 Union Plan.
EU Member States have taken on significant responsibility in hosting refugees and displaced people, including providing temporary protection to more than 4.4 million people fleeing Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. The EU also supports countries hosting large numbers of refugees and displaced persons, ensuring access to shelter and essential services while advancing durable solutions such as local integration, resettlement, and assisted voluntary return.
The EU reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism, defending international protection standards, promoting full respect of international law and humanitarian principles, supporting humanitarian diplomacy, fostering resilience, and reducing long-term dependency on humanitarian assistance. The statement concludes that global cooperation and solidarity are as indispensable as ever to ensure protection for refugees worldwide.