UNHCR Marks 75 Years of the Refugee Convention

UNHCR launched a global declaration called "The Promise" to mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention. Seventy-five public figures from multiple countries, including Brazilian leaders, signed the statement reaffirming the right to seek safety.

What Is "The Promise" Campaign?

To mark 75 years of the 1951 Refugee Convention, UNHCR — the UN Refugee Agency — launched a global public declaration called "The Promise." The initiative brought together 75 prominent figures from different countries to reaffirm their support for refugees and for the fundamental right to seek safety.

Why Does the Refugee Convention Matter?

Adopted on 28 July 1951, the Refugee Convention is the cornerstone of international refugee law. It defines who qualifies as a refugee, outlines their rights, and sets the legal obligations of states that have signed it. Seven decades on, it remains the primary legal instrument protecting millions of displaced people worldwide.

What Role Did Brazilian Leaders Play?

Brazil was represented among the 75 signatories, with Brazilian public figures lending their voices to the declaration. Brazil has long been considered a regional leader in refugee protection in Latin America, and their participation underscores the country's ongoing commitment to humanitarian principles.

What Does "The Promise" Declare?

The declaration reaffirms signatories' support for individuals fleeing persecution, conflict, and violence, and their belief in every person's right to seek asylum. It calls on governments, civil society, and individuals to uphold the values enshrined in the 1951 Convention as the world faces unprecedented levels of forced displacement.

Key Facts:

The 1951 Refugee Convention turned 75 on 28 July.
UNHCR coordinated the "The Promise" declaration.
75 public figures from multiple countries signed the declaration.
Brazilian leaders were among the signatories.
The declaration reaffirms the right to seek safety and asylum.