Adopted on 28 July 1951 in Geneva, the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees provides the legal framework for the protection of refugees worldwide. It defines who qualifies as a refugee and sets out the obligations of States towards people fleeing persecution. Among its key principles is non-refoulement, which prohibits the return of refugees to places where their life or freedom would be threatened. Over the past 75 years, the Convention has remained a fundamental reference point for international refugee protection and has contributed to safeguarding millions of people forced to leave their homes.

To mark the anniversary, UNHCR launches “The Promise”, a global statement of solidarity bringing together voices from different sectors of society to reaffirm support for refugees and the right to seek safety. The initiative aims to build a broader coalition in support of refugee protection ahead of the 2027 Global Refugee Forum. UNHCR highlights the continued relevance of the Convention in a context of high levels of forced displacement and increasing pressure on asylum systems, stressing the importance of preserving access to protection and pursuing lasting solutions for refugees.

The European Union also reaffirms its commitment to the Convention, its values and principles, highlighting the importance of ensuring that refugee protection remains anchored in international law and effective multilateral cooperation. The EU recalls its support for the work of UNHCR and its efforts to contribute to global refugee protection, including through resettlement and humanitarian admission. It also underlines that the Pact on Migration and Asylum, which entered into application in June 2026, provides a framework for a comprehensive approach to migration and asylum management while maintaining protection for people fleeing war and persecution.

For further information, please consult the statements published by UNHCR and the European Union on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Refugee Convention.