Background on the Issue and Relevance of the Mentioned Individual
Globally, over 122 million individuals have been forced to flee their countries due to security concerns, making it one person in every 66 worldwide. If these refugees were to occupy a single country, it would rank as the 12th most populous nation, similar in size to Mexico. This observation was shared by Giovanni Lepri, the UNHCR Representative in Mexico, during a recent statement at the EU Delegation in Mexico City.
New Project Announcement
On the occasion of World Refugee Day, commemorated on June 20th, the EU Delegation in Mexico and the UNHCR announced a new humanitarian project to bolster protection and support for asylum seekers, refugees, and internally displaced persons in Mexico.
Project Details
During a press conference held at the EU Delegation, Ambassador Francisco André of the European Union in Mexico and Giovanni Lepri, UNHCR Representative in Mexico, unveiled this initiative funded by the European Union through its Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO).
With a contribution of 1.1 million euros, the project aims to strengthen UNHCR’s humanitarian response in assisting refugees and asylum seekers along Mexico’s northern and southern borders, as well as in the states of Michoacán and Guerrero, where efforts focus on solutions for internally displaced individuals.
Addressing Internal Displacement
Lepri acknowledged that, although Latin America and the Caribbean lack interstate wars, concerns rise as segments of the population leave their territories due to domestic violence.
Project Beneficiaries and Impact
The initiative is expected to benefit over 10,800 individuals, including asylum seekers, refugees, internally displaced persons, and others in mobility situations. The project prioritizes women, girls, boys, and people with disabilities.
EU’s Commitment to Humanitarian Efforts
“The European Union reaffirms its position as the world’s leading donor. Global cooperation and solidarity are crucial to ensuring the protection of asylum seekers, refugees, and internally displaced persons worldwide. Supporting the vital work of international organizations like UNHCR is of utmost importance and must be sustained,” emphasized Ambassador Francisco André of the European Union in Mexico.
Additional EU Support for UNHCR Initiatives
Besides this contribution, the European Union collaborates with other public and private donors to support UNHCR projects such as the inter-agency “Local Integration Program,” which has facilitated the labor integration of over 50,000 asylum seekers and refugees since 2016 in nearly 650 associated companies.
Asylum Seekers in Mexico
According to the Mexican Commission for Refugee Aid (COMAR), between January 1 and May 30, 2025, 36,300 asylum applications were filed in Mexico. This figure is comparable to the 36,500 applications recorded during the same period in 2024.
Importance of EU’s Support
“In the face of growing pressure on humanitarian funds, the European Union’s contribution through ECHO is vital for continuing to protect those forced to flee for survival. We appreciate this timely and solidarity-driven support,” stated Giovanni Lepri.
