Germany

Germany remains one of UNHCR’s most important partners globally, serving as Europe’s largest host country for refugees, a top resettlement destination, and UNHCR’s second-largest bilateral donor after the United States. UNHCR’s national fundraising efforts are supported by its long-standing partner, UNO-Flüchtlingshilfe, based in Bonn.

In 2024, Germany faced renewed pressure on its asylum and reception systems, with 229,800 first-time asylum applications recorded - a 30% decrease from the previous year. While the additional inflow of Ukrainian refugees slowed, bringing the total to over 1.2 million since 2022, public perception remained focused on overstretched capacities. This was compounded by three deadly attacks involving rejected asylum-seekers and a recognized refugee, prompting the adoption of a “security package” introducing restrictive changes to asylum legislation.

UNHCR’s work in Germany focuses on advocacy, policy guidance, and public engagement—ensuring refugee protection remains grounded in international standards, and fostering collaboration with national and state institutions, civil society, and refugee-led organizations. While the office does not directly manage refugee cases, it plays a crucial coordination and support role across the country.