93rd meeting of the Standing Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees – Note on International Protection

Mr. Chair,

The appalling scale of forced displacement, which reached over 122 million at the end of April 2025[1], provides yet another unequivocal and dramatic indicator of the violence, persecution and conflicts that plague our times.

The Holy See commends those countries that assist and host the forcibly displaced. In such disconcerting circumstances, international cooperation and solidarity are sorely needed, as well as a greater commitment to sharing responsibility and finding solution, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, and resettlement.

This is particularly urgent given that developing countries continue to bear the brunt of caring for the vast majority of refugees. It is concerning that such unprecedented levels of displacement correspond to a sharp reduction in resources.

Mr. Chair,

The Holy See shares the concerns raised by the UNHCR regarding an exclusively security-oriented approach that ignores the tragedies which force people to seek protection. The principle of “non-refoulement” is a core principle that must be respected.

My Delegation wishes to highlight the growing number of unaccompanied children seeking asylum, which is often a direct consequence of the desperate circumstances faced by many families. Respecting the best interests of the child and promoting greater respect for the family unity, which is the natural and fundamental unit of society, by expanding family reunification visas, is particularly important for unaccompanied refugee children.

In this context, it is important to acknowledge the importance of educating refugees. Their skills and knowledge can be vital for integration, protection from exploitation and building a better future.

Mr. Chair,

In order to ensure the relevance and effectiveness of interventions relating to protection, assistance, and durable solutions, it is essential that the UNHCR maintains an integrated approach to its activities. In this regard, the Holy See notes that the terms “sexual orientation” and “gender identity”, included by UNHCR in paragraph 4 of the Note on International Protection[2], lack a clear and universally accepted definition in international law. These terms are also not included in the text of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.

The Holy See confides in the UNHCR’s ability to promote and to respect the dignity, human rights, and needs of every refugee, whether a boy, a girl, a woman, or a man, without introducing new and confusing categories that risk polarizing discussions and making the fundamental goal of protection dependent on the vagueness of certain terms.

Mr. Chair,

In the face of massive displacement and an urgent need for humanitarian assistance, renewed priority must be given to addressing the root causes of displacement. This can be achieved by promoting dialogue, justice, and reconciliation, which are essential to creating the conditions for a safe, voluntary, and dignified return.

In this regard, the Holy See wishes to reiterate that war is never inevitable: it always results from a series of policies and decisions. Somewhere, someone, makes decisions that lead to a terrible aftermath of death, injury, destruction, and sorrow^[2]. As conflicts and divisions continue to affect the human family, it is imperative to overcome the logic of war and, to quote the very first appeal of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, foster “a peace that is unarmed and disarming, humble and persevering.”^[3]

Thank you.