UNHCR: Italy in Geneva, “strongly committed to ensure reception and protection of refugees”

GENEVA, OCTOBER 10 – About 120 national delegations and a large number of NGO observers are taking part in the 74th session of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), currently ongoing in Geneva until 13 October. The participants renewed their support for the High Commissioner, Filippo Grandi, and for the crucial work of UNHCR during emergencies and in conflict areas.

The Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Vincenzo Grassi, took the floor during the General Debate, highlighting the alignment between the Italian Government priorities and the mandate of the High Commissioner. “Italy will continue to be actively and strongly committed to ensure the reception and protection of refugees fleeing violence and persecution”, stated Ambassador Grassi, reiterating the commitment at the forefront of Italy in welcoming asylum seekers and refugees and protecting their rights. 

Ambassador Grassi then recalled that in 2023 Italy contributed for a total of 33.1 million USD to UNHCR budget and praised the solidarity of the population in raising approximately 24.1 million USD. He also highlighted the interaction between the impact of climate change and other causes of displacement, such as conflicts and natural disasters, and stressed the need to integrate this perspective in humanitarian responses.

Finally, the Permanent Representative of Italy drew the attention to the second Global Forum for Refugees, scheduled to take place on 13 and 14 December, which will represent an important milestone to renew protection commitments towards asylum seekers, refugees and stateless persons as enshrined in the international legal framework and the Global Compact for Refugees.

On the margins of the Executive Committee, Ambassador Grassi also intervened at a side-event organized by UNHCR with the Permanent Missions of Ethiopia and Morocco, during which he illustrated, among others, the UNICORE project (University Corridors for Refugee Students), involving over 35 Italian universities and allowing for young refugees to continue their higher education in the country where they found protection. The programme gives them the opportunity to apply for study visas and scholarships in third countries. The Assistance High Commissioner for Protection, Gillian Triggs, praised Italy’s commitment in the field of higher education and in the integration of refugees into the labor market. (@OnuItalia)