On World Refugee Day, which is celebrated on June 20th, “we will recognise the strength and resilience of the more than 117 million people displaced globally. Forced from their homes by conflict, persecution, violence and human rights violations, they continue to demonstrate extraordinary courage in rebuilding their lives and contributing to the communities that welcome them”. This is written in a joint statement by the European Commission and the High Representative that has been issued in Brussels today. “As the world’s leading humanitarian donor, the EU and its Member States support refugees, asylum seekers and host communities, while promoting international protection standards, access to essential services and durable solutions”. “Through its international partnerships, including with the United Nations, the EU works to address the root causes of displacement and strengthen stability in crisis-affected regions and encourages other regions to do the same”. In 2025, the number of displaced people worldwide fell for the first time in a decade, the statement goes on, “pointing towards the importance of this approach”.