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Second Formal Preparatory Meeting for the Global Refugee Forum 2023

Second Formal Preparatory Meeting for the Global Refugee Forum 2023
22/05/2023

On May 17th, the Second Formal Preparatory Meeting for the Global Refugee Forum 2023 took place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

The GRF 2023’s goal is to be a transformational and significant event that results in real, sustainable and positive change for the world’s forcibly displaced and stateless people. The GRF 2023 will aim to secure the following key outcomes that will guide future engagement in comprehensive responses:

  • Ease pressure on host countries
  • Enhance refugee self-reliance
  • Expand access to third-country solutions
  • Support conditions in countries of origin for return in safety and dignity

Some 3,000 participants from around the world are expected to engage in the Forum. The structure and the programme will aim to:

  • Underscore the centrality of burden and responsibility-sharing, the importance of pledges and contributions responding to host country needs, and the translation of inclusive policy pledges into practice through matching to support host countries in advancing protection, inclusion and solutions.
  • Highlight the critical role that leaders can play in mobilizing support and contributions towards the objectives of the GCR.
  • Enable the meaningful participation of refugees and stateless persons, taking into account all forms of diversity. UNHCR is working with partners to engage refugees in preparation for the GRF 2023 and related events.
  • Ensure the visibility of contributions made by States and other stakeholders, particularly new high-quality pledges, mega pledges, support for policy pledges, and good practices to inspire them.

The GRF 2023 will take place from 13 to 15 December 2023 in Geneva, Switzerland, with an advance day for side events and meetings on 12 December 2023. The Forum will be co-hosted by Switzerland and co-convened by Colombia, France, Japan, Jordan, the Niger, and Uganda, together with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The United Nations Secretary-General is also expected to participate in the Forum.

Noteworthy, Colombia, during its intervention, mentioned human trafficking as the major consequence of migration.

Here is the agenda of the Second Formal Preparatory Meeting