Solidarity in action: Spain's support to refugees in Armenia

Walking together: A year of partnership

In 2023, the Government of Armenia welcomed more than 100,000 refugees seeking safety - adding to an already diverse refugee population hosted in the country. In response, the Government of Spain provided critical support through a EUR 500,000 contribution via its Development Cooperation Agency (AECID). In parallel, Spanish private entities and individuals mobilized additional in-kind donations, including basic items and supplies, which helped expand the reach of the response. Together these efforts enabled the timely delivery of essential aid and services, strengthening UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency’s response in several areas in the country.

Since 2023, this collaboration has continued to grow- moving beyond emergency assistance to refugees and asylum-seekers to encompass joint community visits, cultural events, and creative engagements. These efforts bring together refugees and host communities, fostering inclusion, resilience, and shared understanding.

Stories of strength and hope

In Hrazdan, Kotayk province, Agnesa (pictured above) has high hopes for her children’s future. As a single mother of two, this ambition has clearly been passed on to her daughter Srbuhi:

“I want to become a hip-hop dancer, but for that, I need to practise a lot. As my mom always says, study well and support your friends, and good things will come.”

At a day-care centre run by UNHCR partner, Mission Armenia NGO, refugees are welcomed with warmth, selecting clothing donated by the Spanish company Inditex, facilitated by España con ACNUR. Among them is little Mariamik, age seven, who lights up when trying on a new jacket.

“I look like a princess!” she exclaimed.

Celebrating culture and connection

At Mission Armenia’s elderly day-care club in Hrazdan (a small town in Armenia’s Kotayk province), refugees and local community members gather to share more than just time — they share stories, skills, and traditions passed down through generations. Through handicrafts, music, and conversation, the space fosters inclusion, well-being, and cultural continuity.

“It makes me happy to create something beautiful—and even happier to share it with guests like you. Every meeting brings something new to my life,” says Ofelia, a 75-year-old refugee.

This engagement is part of UNHCR and partners’ broader efforts to ensure that older people — often overlooked in displacement settings — are recognized, included, and celebrated for their resilience and contributions to community life.

At a performance by Clowns Without Borders Spain, in 2024, refugee-led organizations, refugee and host community children came together for a moment of joy, play and connection.

“This is the first time my son has seen a clown. He’ll remember this forever,” said a refugee father from Myanmar, watching his son dance and laugh among other children.

These moments of laughter and interaction are a critical part of support for children in crisis, nurturing belonging and emotional well-being.

Resilience on display: festivals of solidarity

At community festivals like the Harvest Festival in Dzoragyugh, Kotayk and “DiliTon,” an annual community festival in Tavush, refugee artisans from Haiti, Congo, Nigeria, and Guinea can proudly share their handicrafts. During the Harvest festival in 2024, Danteline, a refugee woman from Haiti, explained:

“Every doll carries a piece of my story. Through my hands, I create hope—not just for myself, but for other women too.”

Through these vibrant community events, supported by UNHCR and local partners, inclusion becomes tangible — not only by showcasing the talents of displaced individuals, but by fostering mutual understanding and celebrating the richness of diverse culture.

Strengthened partnership with UNHCR and Spain

Spain’s engagement in Armenia is not only about financial support—it is about standing side by side with displaced people, learning from them, and working together to create brighter futures.

“Solidarity is not an event—it’s a long-term commitment built on mutual respect and shared humanity. We are proud to walk this road with UNHCR, host communities, and those who have been forced to flee.” Cristina Conesa Sancho, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Spain in Armenia, speaking during one of the community events.

As UNHCR and Spain continue to strengthen their cooperation, the Government and people of Armenia remain at the heart of this growing partnership - as co-creators of a shared response rooted in dignity, resilience, and solidarity.

Together, we don’t just rebuild lives.

We rebuild hope.