Meaningful Refugee Participation at ExCom 2026: Shaping the Future of Refugee Protection 

Lehaz Aldarf participated in the 77th plenary session of the Executive Committee (ExCom) as an official member of the German delegation. Bringing perspectives informed by both expertise and lived experience, Lehaz contributed to discussions on the future of refugee protection and the importance of meaningful refugee participation in shaping policies and decisions that affect refugees’ lives. 

This year’s ExCom was particularly significant as it marked the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention. The anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the international commitment to refugee protection and how it can be upheld in today’s context. Discussions on UNHCR’s 50by35 vision, self-reliance and sustainable solutions highlighted the importance of ensuring that protection goes hand in hand with opportunities for refugees to build independent and sustainable futures. 

During an exchange with the Syrian delegation, Lehaz also discussed refugee protection and status, German–Syrian relations and bilateral cooperation. The session was the first ExCom under the new UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Barham Salih. Meeting him in person was a particular highlight of the event. 

RAB Germany thanks the German Federal Foreign Office, the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Permanent Mission of the Federal Republic of Germany to the United Nations for including Lehaz in the German delegation. 

The 75th anniversary of the Refugee Convention serves as a reminder that refugee protection means not only providing safety but also enabling refugees to participate meaningfully in decisions that affect their lives and shape their futures.