UNHCR’s Salih commends Jordan’s support for refugees and urges international backing as needs grow

AMMAN, 03 February 2026 – United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Barham Salih, today emphasized the importance of maintaining strong international support for Jordan as the country continues to host one of the largest refugee populations per capita in the world.

During his first official visit to Jordan as High Commissioner, Salih met with His Majesty King Abdullah II, senior officials, donors' partners, civil society representatives, and refugees. The High Commissioner reaffirmed UNHCR’s deep appreciation for Jordan’s steadfast partnership and humanitarian commitment.

“Jordan has provided safety, dignity, and stability to refugees for many years, demonstrating leadership that the world must continue to recognize and support,” Salih said. “This generosity cannot be sustained without renewed international engagement.”

He visited Zaatari Refugee Camp, where he met families, listening to their concerns, aspirations, and challenges. At end 2025, Jordan hosted over 444,000 refugees registered with UNHCR, many of whom have been displaced over a decade.

While more Syrian refugees are choosing to go home, Salih underlined that return must always be a personal decision and must be carried out in a voluntary, informed, and dignified manner. Over 180,000 Syrian refugees in Jordan have already made the choice to return.

“Many refugees tell us clearly: they hope to return home one day, but they want safety and sustainability,” Salih said. “UNHCR is committed to supporting those who choose to return - ensuring they have the information, counselling, and assistance to make the journey, voluntary, safe, and dignified.”

Salih stressed that a significant number of refugees will remain in Jordan for the foreseeable future, and many are becoming increasingly vulnerable.

“It is essential that the most vulnerable refugees who remain in Jordan, as well as the communities hosting them, continue to receive support,” he noted. “This protects families from falling into deeper destitution and supports national systems.”

Salih warned that global funding shortfalls are already impacting critical humanitarian and protection services in Jordan, affecting refugees’ ability to meet basic needs.

He reaffirmed UNHCR’s commitment to working with the Government, donors, and partners to support refugees and host communities, and to advance long-term solutions.

END

For more information, please contact:

In Amman - Yousef Taha – [email protected]

In Amman – Regional Office - Rula Amin – [email protected]

In Geneva - Matthew Saltmarsh - [email protected]