Vatican City: Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), expressed deep concern over the escalating global displacement crisis and the increasing threats to human rights worldwide, following a private audience with Pope Leo XIV on Thursday. Speaking to Vatican News, Grandi said he felt “tremendously encouraged” by the Pope’s unwavering commitment to supporting refugees and migrants, describing it as central to the pontificate’s mission.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed the “extremely complex situation of the world” marked by conflicts, violations of international humanitarian law, and humanitarian crises that continue to displace millions. Grandi highlighted that when he began his tenure as High Commissioner, the global number of refugees and displaced persons was estimated at 60–65 million; today, that figure has more than doubled to over 120 million. He described this staggering increase as “one of the symptoms of a very difficult world.”
The High Commissioner drew particular attention to the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. While UNHCR has no operational mandate there, Grandi said he was “horrified” by the suffering and extreme hardship of the population. He warned that the crisis not only threatens the immediate wellbeing of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank but also carries long-term implications for regional security in Israel.
Beyond specific conflict zones, Grandi sounded the alarm about the global consequences of actions taken by powerful nations. Citing Israel’s policies and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, he warned that such precedents endanger the future of international humanitarian law and human rights more broadly. He urged global leaders to reflect on the broader ramifications of these violations.
Grandi also praised Pope Leo XIV and the Holy See for their focus on “forgotten crises” that rarely receive media attention. He noted that discussions in the Vatican often highlight humanitarian emergencies in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, and other overlooked regions where UNHCR is actively engaged. The High Commissioner expressed gratitude for the Catholic Church’s support at both grassroots and institutional levels, emphasizing that the partnership strengthens the global refugee response and provides vital advocacy for displaced populations.
Concluding his remarks, Grandi reaffirmed his optimism and determination, noting that the collaboration with the Holy See offers both moral and practical reinforcement for UNHCR’s mission. “I feel greatly encouraged by the support, the partnership, and the confirmation that this close alignment of views and actions will continue in the future,” he said, highlighting the importance of unity and advocacy in addressing some of the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges.
The private audience between the Pope and the UN Refugee Chief underscored the growing intersection of faith-based advocacy and international humanitarian efforts, signaling continued collaboration in addressing displacement, human rights, and crises affecting millions worldwide.