The Government of Uganda and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have issued a joint appeal to the international community, urging increased support for Uganda’s refugee response amid severe global funding constraints.
In a joint statement, both parties acknowledged the growing pressure on humanitarian operations due to limited financial resources.
A high-level meeting held on May 23, 2025, between Ugandan officials and UNHCR representatives addressed the implications of the current budget shortfall on refugee operations worldwide and within Uganda.
The statement confirmed that, as a result of these funding gaps, difficult measures are being implemented including staff reductions in an effort to manage operations more sustainably.
Both the Government and UNHCR emphasized that these decisions are being made in close coordination and with transparency, though they expressed deep regret over the impact on affected personnel and the refugee population.
“We reaffirm our strong and enduring partnership, grounded in a shared commitment to Uganda’s refugee response,” the statement read. “UNHCR and the Government continue to work hand in hand to ensure transparency, alignment with national priorities, and the continued delivery of essential services to refugees.”
Uganda currently hosts 1.9 million refugees, with over 110,000 new arrivals recorded in 2025 alone, making it one of the largest refugee-hosting countries in the world. Despite this, UNHCR Uganda has received just 17% of its required funding for the year.
Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Eng. Hilary Onek, and UNHCR Country Representative Matthew Crents, who signed the joint statement, stressed the urgent need for renewed international solidarity.
They warned that without increased support, the country’s ability to uphold its progressive and inclusive refugee policy could be severely undermined.
Uganda is widely recognized for its open-door approach to refugees, offering access to land, education, and healthcare. However, the growing humanitarian demands now risk outpacing the available resources.
The joint statement ends with a call to action; “Sustained international solidarity is essential to uphold Uganda’s exemplary refugee policy and ensure continued protection for those in need.”
