Our focus must be on helping people move beyond prolonged displacement: UK statement at the UN Security Council

The UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN highlighted that over 100 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide, with displacement lasting five years or more for most refugees. She emphasized the need for change, noting that the current system leaves many unable to rebuild their lives despite the 75-year-old Refugee Convention. The UK supports UNHCR’s 50 by 35 vision, aiming to help refugees move beyond prolonged displacement rather than remain trapped in exile.

Ambassador Kate Foster stressed the importance of asylum systems that function effectively for refugees, host communities, and Member States. This includes strengthening the ability to fairly distinguish between refugees and migrants and addressing the role of organized criminal networks profiting from dangerous journeys. She underscored that asylum systems must be credible, effective, and trusted to ensure protection remains viable.

The UK outlined practical steps to support refugees, including directing development finance toward refugee-hosting countries through international financial institutions. This aims to prevent host communities from bearing the burden alone and supports the inclusion of refugees in national systems. Additionally, the UK is working in over 50 countries to integrate nearly 200,000 refugee children into national education systems.

Foster called for addressing the root causes of displacement, urging the Council to focus on prevention rather than responding to displacement after it occurs. She cited conflicts in Sudan, Syria, and Yemen as examples where political will is needed to achieve ceasefires, stability, and de-escalation to reduce displacement and humanitarian suffering.