24 February 2026 — The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in India announced plans to increase support for refugee-led initiatives among Chin refugees, despite facing significant financial constraints.
Ms. Areti Sianni, a UNHCR representative based in New Delhi, made the remarks while attending a Chin National Day event on 23 February, following an invitation from the Chin refugee community.
She said expanding support for refugee-led initiatives would help strengthen innovation and create more opportunities within refugee communities, while also enabling refugees to become more self-reliant.
She noted that she had attended a similar event two years ago but emphasised that global challenges have since intensified, with rising refugee numbers and increasing conflicts worldwide.
She also acknowledged that UNHCR is currently facing an unprecedented financial crisis, which has resulted in office relocations, staff reductions, and cuts to some services. However, she confirmed that essential assistance—including refugee registration, documentation, and emergency cash support—will continue.
UNHCR also announced plans to increase the budget for small grants this year to support refugee-led initiatives.
Looking ahead, the agency said it will continue discussions with Indian authorities to improve refugee access to public services and national programs. It will also seek additional funding and strengthen partnerships with other organizations to ensure continued support for refugees across India. – Reporting by Ben
