Geneva: UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, estimates that 2.5 million refugees worldwide will need to be resettled next year, according to the Projected Global Resettlement Needs report released this morning. The figure reflects a decrease from 2.9 million in 2025, attributed to the evolving situation in Syria, which has seen a shift towards voluntary returns.
According to United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the largest refugee populations in need of resettlement for 2026 include Afghans (573,400), Syrians (442,400), South Sudanese (258,200), Sudanese (246,800), Rohingya (233,300), and Congolese (179,500). Refugees will primarily need to be resettled from major host countries such as Iran (348,900), Turkey (258,000), Pakistan (215,000), Ethiopia (213,950), and Uganda (174,000).
For the year 2026, the international community aims to resettle 120,000 refugees. Historical data indicates that this target is feasible. While larger quotas are essential for achieving these resettlement goals, smaller quotas will play a significant role, particularly if cases can be processed and reviewed remotely.
For over seven decades, UNHCR has facilitated resettlement as a crucial lifeline for refugees, providing solutions for those facing severe risks, including deportation, violence, medical emergencies, and other critical threats. Last year, over 116,000 refugees were able to find safety and rebuild their lives through UNHCR-supported resettlement, underscoring the value of each opportunity for those fleeing danger.