On the occasion of World Refugee Day, celebrated every year on June 20, UNHCR, the United Nations Refugee Agency, pays tribute to the resilience, courage, and hopes of the millions of people around the world who have been forced to flee violence, persecution, and conflict.
This year, the theme “For a World in Solidarity with Refugees” aims to raise awareness of the situation faced by refugees, promote their inclusion, and remind us all of the role we can play in ensuring their protection and dignity.
The 2025 observance takes place in a global context marked by persistent instability, rising conflict, and a worsening humanitarian crisis, further aggravated by a general underfunding of aid operations.
With 123 million displaced people worldwide, including 43 million refugees, the world is witnessing the 13th consecutive year of increasing forced displacement, driven by a growing number of conflicts across the globe.
As of today, Morocco hosts 19,000 refugees and asylum seekers from more than 59 different countries. These individuals live in 81 locations across the Kingdom, where they integrate into schools, universities, businesses, and hospitals — actively contributing to the social and economic fabric of Moroccan society.
Behind these figures lie human stories — of young entrepreneurs, students, and parents striving for stability and a better future after being forced to flee their homelands. Yet, many still live in extreme vulnerability, with nearly 10% of them being unaccompanied children. Their paths toward recovery are now threatened by sharp cuts in humanitarian funding, which directly impact essential services.
François Reybet-Degat, UNHCR Representative in Morocco, stated:
“Morocco embodies a tradition of hospitality and openness. In a time of global underfunding, needs are rising as resources diminish. It is crucial to reinforce collective mobilization to ensure that refugees have effective access to their rights.”
UNHCR calls for a collective mobilization — from governments, the private sector, civil society, the media, and each and every one of us.
So that every refugee is seen, heard, and supported, and can begin a new life, in peace and hope.
Le7tv Newsroom (press release)