World Refugee Day 2022 commemorated across Iran by UNHCR and BAFIA

Ceremonies were held in different provinces, namely Tehran, Khorasan Razavi, Fars, Isfahan, and Kerman.

Held at Tehran’s Milad tower, the event gathered representatives of UN agencies, representatives from the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, members of the diplomatic community and national and international NGOs, together with refugee representatives.

During the event, themed Whoever, Wherever, Whenever, Everyone has the right to seek safety, the UN Resident Coordinator in Iran, Stefan Priesner, hailed the resilience of refugees and the hospitality of the host country.

“For more than 40 years, Iran has shared the resources available in the country with their Afghan and Iraqi brothers and sisters, despite all the challenges that the country is confronted with,” said Priesner.

He also appreciated progressive and inclusive policies of Iran towards refugees, such as the inclusion of Afghans, regardless of their documentation status, into the national vaccine program. The UN Resident Coordinator reaffirmed the UN’s commitment for continued support and assistance for vulnerable refugees and communities that host them.

UNHCR’s Officer in Charge in Iran, Inna Gladkova, also called for the mobilization of more international support for Iran’s humanitarian efforts, particularly during a time of record-rising forced displacement across the world.

The events also showcased the culture and traditions of refugee communities, with a series of craft bazaars and exhibitions in different cities.

According to the latest statistics by the Government of Iran, the country  hosts about 800,000  registered refugees, mainly from Afghanistan and Iraq. In total, around 3.5 million of varying status live in Iran and have access to basic services.

UN Iran works with the government to support national efforts for refugees. UNHCR and WFP are the main UN entities with specific mandates to assist  refugees. Other UN agencies, such as UNICEF, IOM, UNIDO, UNFPA also implement projects  for refugees in the sectors of health, education and WASH across the country.