Summary of Meeting with UNHCR Chief of Mission – 16 October 2025

On 16 October 2025, a meeting was held between Ms Arati Saini, Chief of Mission of UNHCR India, and refugee representatives including the Association of Hazara Voice for Justice (AHVJ). The meeting took place from 12 to 3 in the afternoon and was attended by officers from the Protection, RSD, and Resettlement departments. Ms Saini explained that due to a serious shortage of funds, UNHCR has reduced its staff by 38 percent, especially in the RSD and Resettlement sections. Health services and cash assistance have been reduced by 50 percent, and some educational and psychosocial programs have also been affected. The UNHCR office in Vasant Vihar has been vacated. Only three RSD officers are currently working. For the next year, UNHCR plans to continue basic services such as registration and legal aid, advocate with the Indian government for refugee rights, and seek more resettlement and complementary pathway opportunities. They also plan to support refugee-led initiatives and encourage voluntary repatriation for those who wish to return. However, UNHCR confirmed that the financial situation may worsen and that cash assistance may stop next year. Community representatives raised several concerns. Questions were asked about delays in Australian resettlement cases and the suspension of US resettlement cases. UNHCR replied that the delays are normal in many countries and advocacy with both governments continues. Concerns about refugees detained by FRRO Pune were also discussed. UNHCR confirmed they are aware and that legal follow-up is in progress. AHVJ also shared a list of refugees referred to Australia and the US and others still in the resettlement process. UNHCR reminded everyone that all services are free and requested that any cases of money being asked from refugees be reported immediately. The meeting ended with an assurance that UNHCR will continue its support and advocacy within its limited resources.