Cash-strapped UNHCR says shed 5,000 jobs this year

The UNHCR has eliminated nearly 5,000 jobs this year due to drastic cuts in international aid, threatening vital refugee programs amid a funding crisis.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, announced the agency's reduction of approximately 5,000 jobs, impacting over 25% of its workforce.
This job cut comes in response to significant reductions in international aid, particularly a decrease from the United States during Donald Trump's administration.
Critical programs, including those addressing gender-based violence prevention, have been suspended due to the UNHCR's budget shortfall and reduced operational capacity.
The UNHCR's budget for 2023 faced a shortfall of more than $2 billion, exacerbating the impact on services provided to millions of refugees worldwide.
With these cuts, the UNHCR is struggling to maintain its support for over 37 million refugees, highlighting the dire consequences of dwindling international funding.

Why It Matters

The job cuts at the UNHCR signify a severe blow to refugee support services, directly impacting vulnerable populations in crisis. As essential programs are suspended, many refugees may face increased risks, particularly regarding gender-based violence. The agency's financial instability raises concerns about its ability to respond effectively to ongoing global refugee crises. Observers should monitor how international funding dynamics evolve, especially with upcoming political changes in the U.S.