Attachments
Around 30,000 asylum applications were registered in Switzerland in 2023., which is expected to be similar in 2024. UNHCR provides recommendations to improve reception conditions.
UNHCR works with authorities and NGOs to promote social inclusion of refugees and engages with them through various initiatives.
Switzerland remains a strong supporter of UNHCR, as the host of UNHCR’s headquarters and as a top donor, providing flexible and predictable multi-year funding to UNHCR.
HIGHLIGHTS
Swiss Asylum Symposium Over 360 participants attended the Asylum Symposium, on 2 - 3 May, which was co-organized by UNHCR and the Swiss Refugee Council. Discussions focused on civil society engagement in refugee protection and the enhancement of refugee participation.
New comprehensive asylum strategy The State Secretariat for Migration is developing an asylum strategy. Working groups were set to develop proposals, and UNHCR will participate. The revised asylum strategy is scheduled to be adopted by mid-2025.
Refugee Speakers Program UNHCR hosted an event on World Refugee Day 2024 featuring three participants of the first Swiss Refugee Speakers Program. The three shared their experiences on several issues, such as labor market integration.