UNHCR Chief Warns Against Reforming Asylum Convention
The head of UNHCR, Filippo Grandi, cautioned against reforms to the refugee convention and asylum system, warning of 'catastrophic' outcomes. The remarks counter U.S. efforts to limit asylum rights amid rising global displacement and severe budget cuts at UNHCR affecting its operations worldwide.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) chief, Filippo Grandi, issued stern warnings on Monday against any reforms to the global refugee convention, describing such efforts as 'catastrophic.' His remarks come in response to the United States' moves to restrict asylum rights.
During a UNHCR meeting in Geneva, Grandi emphasized that pressures to reform the asylum system lack good faith and threaten international solidarity. Meanwhile, the U.S. administration continues to push for migrants to seek asylum in the first country they enter, rather than a country of their choice.
Amid ongoing global conflicts and severe budget cuts, the UNHCR faces operational challenges, shedding nearly 5,000 jobs and reducing its presence worldwide. Aid agencies grapple with funding reductions against a backdrop of increased defense spending by Western powers.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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