75 Years of Protection: Strengthening Refugee Futures and Inclusion

75 Years of Protection: Strengthening Refugee Futures and Inclusion

The United Nations Association of New Zealand - Wellington Branch, in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), invites you to a special event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention.

Join us for an evening of conversation, reflection, and connection on one of the most pressing issues of our time.

This World Refugee Day, we bring together students, academics, community organisations, diplomats, and members of the public to explore both the global refugee landscape and practical pathways towards durable solutions — 75 years after the Refugee Convention first came into force.

The evening will feature:

• A keynote address by Soo-Jin Rhee, UNHCR Representative for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific

• A panel discussion with leading voices from academia, civil society, and international organisations

• Audience Q&A and closing reflections

• Networking

Keynote Address

Soo Jin Rhee

Representative, UNHCR Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific

Panel Discussion

• Soo Jin Rhee – Representative, UNHCR Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific

• Dr Julija Sardelić – Senior Lecturer, Political Science and International Relations, Victoria University of Wellington

• Birgit Grafarend-Watungwa – Chief Executive Officer, HOST International Aotearoa New Zealand

• Thidar Nyein - Settlement Lead, New Zealand Red Cross

• Yibeth Morales Ayala - National Youth Engagement Lead, New Zealand National Refugee Youth Council Inc.

Moderated by Karim Dickie, UN System Liaison, UNANZ

Concluding remarks by Her Excellency Isaura Duarte, Colombian Ambassador to New Zealand.

Themes include:

• The global refugee landscape in 2026

• The significance of the Refugee Convention after 75 years

• Refugee protection and inclusion in the Asia-Pacific region

• Community-led approaches to settlement and belonging

• Future opportunities for governments, organisations, and civil society

📅 Wednesday, 24 June 2026

🕠 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

📍 RHLT3, Rutherfurd House, Victoria University of Wellington

☕ Refreshments provided following the discussion

We look forward to seeing you there!