Today, Yemen participated in the opening session of the 75th session of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Executive Committee. The Yemeni delegation, headed by Ambassador Dr. Ali Majour, represented the country at this critical international gathering in Geneva.
Highlighting Yemen’s Struggles
In his speech, Ambassador Majour discussed the severe challenges Yemen faces due to ongoing conflicts and natural disasters. These issues have displaced millions of citizens both internally and externally. He emphasized the urgent need for enhanced international efforts to provide necessary assistance to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees. Moreover, he called for technical and financial support for countries like Yemen that experience multiple waves of displacement.
Rising Displacement Figures
Ambassador Majour pointed out the alarming increase in internally displaced persons in Yemen. Many families have fled their homes due to deteriorating security conditions and the scarcity of natural resources. Climate change impacts, including adverse weather patterns, coupled with a significant economic crisis, have severely affected citizens’ livelihoods. He stressed that these multifaceted crises require strengthened international cooperation to address the urgent needs of refugees and IDPs effectively.
Call for Expanded Humanitarian Aid
The ambassador also drew attention to the reduction of support from the UNHCR, which has impacted efforts to alleviate the suffering of those affected in Yemen. He underscored the importance of broadening assistance to include essential services such as shelter, food, education, and healthcare for both displaced individuals and refugees. Additionally, he highlighted the need to support host communities that bear the burden of accommodating large numbers of refugees.
Hope for Sustainable Solutions
Ambassador Majour expressed hope that discussions during the 75th session would lead to decisions that support countries grappling with displacement crises. He called for practical and sustainable solutions to these pressing challenges.
Context of Yemen’s Participation
Yemen’s participation in this session comes amid dire circumstances, as the country faces significant internal and external displacement due to the war instigated by Houthi militias, climate change, and economic crises. Recently, over 100,000 families have been displaced due to floods and heavy rains.
Yemen’s involvement in this session reflects its ongoing efforts to garner support and enhance its presence in international and regional forums. The country aims to drive real and sustainable solutions to the global challenges of displacement and refugee crises, which require collective responses and collaborative action from all nations and relevant organizations.
Attendance at the Opening Session
The opening session also saw the attendance of Deputy Permanent Representative Dr. Hamid Omar and First Secretary Yahya Al-Rafiq from the Yemeni mission.
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