UN refugee agency scales back posts and budget for 2027, documents show
In 2025, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) had 16,126 budgeted posts versus 12,051 this year and 8,540 in 2027, the budget documents showed.
The United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, has reduced its budget by 16% and decreased its workforce by approximately 3,500 positions for 2027, according to documents seen by Reuters. This move reflects the agency's adaptation to significant financial constraints despite global displacement expected to reach an all-time high next year.
The cuts represent a near halving of the workforce and a third reduction in the budget since 2025. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) had 16,126 budgeted posts in 2025, but only 8,540 positions are expected in 2027, excluding temporary roles and contractors. UNHCR officials briefed member states on the latest cuts at a UN meeting in Geneva, although a spokesperson clarified that many posts were never filled in previous budgets, and income projections for next year are comparable to 2026.
The agency faces a significant funding shortfall, and budget constraints have already forced substantial workforce reductions. The UNHCR plans to prioritize emergency response, protection of refugees, voluntary returns, and self-reliance. The US, the largest donor in 2025, contributed over $800 million, but its contribution has since decreased to around $110 million.
The budget cuts are particularly severe for the Americas region, with a projected $485 million reduction. Major refugee host countries expressed concerns about the impact on refugees and the ability to fund them.
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