UNHCR’s operations chief commends Thailand’s support for refugees and stateless people, encourages stronger inclusion policies

Bangkok, Thailand, 22 June 2025  – Assistant High Commissioner for Operations at UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, Mr. Raouf Mazou, concluded a four-day visit to Thailand today, commending the government for its long-standing support to refugees and recent advancements in addressing statelessness, while urging further progress toward inclusive policies that promote refugee self-reliance and durable solutions.

At a time of growing global volatility and mounting pressure on asylum systems, there is a pressing need for Member States to step forward as regional and global leaders. In this regard, Mr. Mazou welcomed Thailand’s constructive role and encouraged the country to continue leading by example in advancing efforts to resolve statelessness.

During his visit, Mazou met with senior Thai officials, Diplomatic missions and partner  organizations. He participated in World Refugee Day commemorations in Bangkok, delivering opening remarks at the Refugee Food Festival which celebrates refugee contributions through culture and cuisine.

In Tak Province, he visited Mae La, the largest temporary shelter in Thailand, home to over 29,000  refugees, where he met with refugee leaders, displaced families, and youth. Among them was a young refugee student awarded a competitive scholarship to pursue higher education in Australia. He also met with Sermpanya Foundation, refugee filmmakers whose work demonstrates the skills and creativity that thrive when refugees are given the opportunity to contribute.

“Thailand has provided protection to those fleeing conflict for decades, showing compassion, leadership and solidarity”, said Mr. Mazou. Concurrently, the Assistant High Commissioner for Operations encouraged Thai authorities to further advance policies that allow refugees to contribute meaningfully to society through access to education, legal employment, and public services.

“Refugees are not only beneficiaries of protection — they are individuals with skills, talents, and aspirations. By investing in their self-reliance and inclusion, host countries benefit socially and economically,” he said. “We stand ready to support Thailand in developing legal and policy frameworks that reflect this vision.”

UNHCR’s Assistant High Commissioner for Operations also addressed the deteriorating situation in Myanmar, which continues to generate displacement and exacerbate insecurity across the  border. The protracted nature of the displacement means that many refugees have spent decades in the Temporary Shelters, and for a significant number of them, Thailand has been the only home they have ever known.

“In such a context, long-term solutions must go beyond humanitarian assistance, and include policies that expand access to education, skills development, and legal pathways that allow refugees to live with greater self-reliance and dignity”, he said.

UNHCR also recognized the strong collaboration between the Royal Thai Government, local communities, and humanitarian partners in managing refugee needs, particularly in border areas affected by regional instability.

Mazou reiterated UNHCR’s commitment to supporting Thailand in pursuing solutions in line with the Global Compact on Refugees, including voluntary repatriation, resettlement, and local opportunities for integration.