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UNHCR at 70, Through the Eyes of UK Staff

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UNHCR at 70, Through the Eyes of UK Staff

Since 1951, our mission has been to protect people forced to flee. To mark our 70th anniversary we hear from British staff, past and present, to learn what it means to work for UNHCR
By Matthew Saltmarsh
14 December 2020
UNHCR protection officer, Gemma Woods, talks to a displaced Iraqi family who were living in a dis-used building on a university campus in northern Iraq.
UNHCR protection officer, Gemma Woods, talks to a displaced Iraqi family who were living in a dis-used building on a university campus in northern Iraq.
© Andrew McConnell/Panos for DFID

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, was founded, 70 years ago, a time when around 2.1 million people came under its mandate. The expectation was that it would wind down after a few years, no longer needed. Today, with conflict and strife on the rise, more than 80 million people are forcibly displaced and UNHCR’s work is more important than ever.

For seven decades – beginning with mass displacement in the aftermath of World War II – UNHCR has responded to global crises with lifesaving support, speed and caring commitment. We defend rights. We help build better futures. And, through the generosity of our supporters, we're more dedicated than ever. Thank you for supporting those forced to flee - then, today and tomorrow. 

The agency currently has a staff of around 17,000 in 135 countries. Most of them work close to areas of mass displacement, which are often inhospitable or downright dangerous.

This was such a privilege. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world

The UK has played a key role in international refugee support since World War II. It was an important driver in the creation of UNHCR and the 1951 Refugee Convention. UNHCR’s first Representative to the UK, Gustave Kullmann, a Swiss national, took up the post in 1952.

UNHCR has a modest presence in the UK – working in legal protection, advocacy and fund-raising. But the UK remains one of the most important donors to UNHCR, with taxpayers’ money helping to support some of the most vulnerable people on the planet and work towards solutions for them. Over the years, the UK has provided a steady stream of UNHCR staff at all grades, dedicated to the cause of helping refugees in their displacement and enabling them to restart their lives.

To mark the organisation’s 70 years, UNHCR UK has profiled some of the organisation’s British staff members – past and present -- who have made personal sacrifices for the refugee cause. The work is varied, challenging and, above all, rewarding. “This was such a privilege,” said Chris Mougne, now retired. “I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”

Meet just a few of the British staff of UNHCR to learn about their work, and the highs and lows of their careers.

Explore our profiles

'I was too star-struck to ask for a selfie'

'We forded rivers and battled through muddy tracks'

'Without doubt it's the most interesting UN work'

'Dedicated people working in very difficult and often dangerous conditions'

'They know best what works in their communities'

'Many had no idea where they would sleep that night'

'Repatriation and family reunion are definitely the best part'