The Maison des jeunes in the city of Natitingou served as the venue on Saturday, June 20, 2026, for the official ceremonies marking the latest edition of World Refugee Day. This event highlighted the nation’s ongoing dedication to providing sanctuary and support to those forced to flee their homes.
A high-level gathering for humanitarian action
The opening ceremony was led by Djibril Mama Cissé, the Minister of Interior and Public Security. He was accompanied by Aminatou Sar, the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System in Bénin, and Thomas Wyllie, the Regional Deputy Director of the UNHCR for West Africa. The day’s agenda featured formal addresses, a visit to exhibition stands showcasing income-generating projects managed by refugees, and a symbolic tree-planting activity.
This year’s international theme, “Until everyone is safe,” served as a call to action regarding the global refugee crisis. Current data reveals that Bénin is currently home to 29,000 refugees and asylum seekers, with an additional 14,000 individuals awaiting the formalization of their refugee status.
Commitment to protection and social integration
During her speech, Aminatou Sar noted that while these figures represent a significant responsibility for the country, they also reflect the profound hospitality of the government and the people of Bénin. She confirmed that the United Nations remains fully mobilized to support the state in providing essential services, including food security, healthcare, education for children, and psychological assistance.
Minister Djibril Mama Cissé emphasized that World Refugee Day is a vital moment to show solidarity with those escaping persecution and conflict. He remarked that the theme “Until everyone is safe” underscores that refugee protection is a collective obligation requiring international cooperation and humanity. He assured that Bénin maintains a robust legal and institutional framework, ensuring that displaced persons have access to vital sectors such as employment and social protection.
Security and the right to asylum
Despite the current regional security landscape, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s strict adherence to the principle of non-refoulement and the right to asylum. He explained that national security needs and international protection mandates are balanced through sophisticated systems for identification, registration, and monitoring.
The event also featured contributions from Norbert Tido N’dah, the first deputy mayor of Natitingou, and Albert Nacoulma, representing the refugee community. Nacoulma pledged that refugees would continue to respect the laws of Bénin and contribute positively to social cohesion within their host communities. The commemorations concluded with further environmental initiatives and community activities.