A message from our CEO: a time of reflection

As the British national partner of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, we wanted to acknowledge the sadness that many across the United Kingdom, and around the world, are feeling today after the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.  

Queen Elizabeth came to the throne at a time of post conflict recovery, when UNHCR was in its first years and much of the world was still recovering from the horrors of the Second World War.   

By 1959 the Queen was Patron of World Refugee Year, which called for increased support for displaced families internationally.  

Over many decades, the Queen supported countless social causes and charities, marking a lifetime of dedicated service to our sector. 

As the country enters a period of mourning over the coming days, we will reflect on her profound legacy as we continue our work in support of refugees fleeing conflict and persecution around the world.