The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has urged a major rethink in the financing of refugee programmes, highlighting that the rising number of people in prolonged displacement is pushing humanitarian systems to their limits.
The agency noted that current funding models—heavily reliant on short-term donor contributions—are increasingly insufficient for addressing long-term refugee needs. UNHCR stressed the need for predictable, multi-year funding to maintain essential services and enable effective long-term planning.
“Displacement is no longer a short-term emergency in many parts of the world. It requires consistent investment and a development-oriented approach,” the agency said.
According to UNHCR, many refugee situations now stretch over years, leaving host countries to shoulder most of the burden. These nations often struggle to provide services such as education, healthcare, and housing for both refugees and local populations, especially when funding flows are inconsistent.
The agency is advocating for closer coordination between humanitarian and development actors, including international financial institutions, to integrate refugees into national systems. This approach, UNHCR says, would promote self-reliance among displaced communities and reduce dependence on aid over time.
UNHCR warned that without changes to the current financing model, critical programmes risk disruption, potentially worsening conditions for refugees and increasing their vulnerability.
As global crises continue to drive mass displacement, the agency emphasised that stable, forward-looking funding is essential to ensure that both refugees and host communities receive consistent support.
