Statement by H.E. Archbishop Ettore Balestrero, Apostolic Nuncio, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva, at the 95th Meeting of the Standing Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees- Regional update on Europe
Geneva, 25 March 2026
Mr. Chair,
My Delegation would like to thank the Regional Director for Europe for providing a comprehensive update on the situation in the Region.
More than four years have passed since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. The Holy See continues to follow with deep sorrow the dramatic humanitarian impact of this conflict, which has caused the forced displacement of millions of people, shattered lives and families, and brought widespread destruction and suffering. As His Holiness Pope Leo XIV affirmed, “Every war is truly a wound inflicted upon the entire human family; it leaves in its wake death, devastation and a trail of pain that marks generations.”[1]
Even though wars continue to tragically increase across the world, we must not lower our guard on this humanitarian tragedy. Civilians have been wounded or killed, and millions of individuals urgently need humanitarian assistance, including the displaced. Essential infrastructures are targeted, leaving people without reliable access to electricity, heating and water amid harsh weather conditions.
In the face of such suffering, my Delegation echoes the appeal of Pope Leo XIV for an immediate cessation of hostilities, and that “peace cannot be postponed. It is an urgent necessity that must find a home in our hearts and be translated into responsible decisions.”[2]
Mr. Chair,
The European Union’s decision to extend temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 2027 is to be commended. Furthermore, it is important to express gratitude to those States that have welcomed refugees and facilitated their integration into the workforce, ensuring equitable access to healthcare and educational opportunities.
Through its many institutions, the Catholic Church continues to welcome, protect, promote and integrate people in need of protection, providing them with humanitarian and spiritual assistance, employment and education.
The generous welcome extended to the millions of persons fleeing the conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated that legal frameworks and practical solidarity can be rapidly mobilized to ensure the protection of lives when there is a genuine interest in respecting the God-given human dignity of every single person.
Unfortunately, becoming a refugee is never a choice. The right to life must be prioritized, and the principle of non-refoulement must be upheld. No person in need of protection should die at sea or at land borders due to withheld, delayed, or conditional assistance. The Holy See supports efforts to develop more predictable, route‑based responses, including strengthened search‑and‑rescue coordination. However, such an approach must also address the root causes of forced displacement, so that no one is compelled to leave his or her home due to a well-founded fear of persecution.
Thank you.