EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner reaffirms EU commitment to refugee protection during Geneva visit
On 12 December 2025, EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner concluded a series of high-level engagements in Geneva focused on global migration, asylum and refugee protection. The visit underlined the European Union’s strong commitment to multilateral cooperation and to working closely with the United Nations system and refugee-hosting countries.
Global Refugee Forum Progress Review
At the Opening Session of the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review, Commissioner Brunner delivered a keynote address highlighting the EU’s continued support for the Global Compact on Refugees and collective international action. He stressed the importance of solidarity, responsibility-sharing and effective partnerships in addressing displacement challenges.
Speaking at the Forum, the Commissioner stated. “Let me say clearly: the EU’s support for the multilateral system of international protection is unwavering.” He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation with UNHCR, IOM and refugee-hosting countries outside the EU, in line with a comprehensive and whole-of-route approach to migration.
High-level meetings with UN partners
During his visit, Commissioner Brunner met with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi to discuss global responsibility-sharing and the need to ensure effective asylum systems worldwide. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to refugee protection and durable, future-oriented solutions.
The Commissioner also met with the Director General of the International Organization for Migration, Amy Pope, where discussions focused on migration management and continued close cooperation with IOM, on the route based approach.
In addition, Commissioner Brunner held an exchange with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk on EU migration and asylum policy. The discussion emphasised the importance of ensuring that human rights remain at the centre of migration management and international cooperation.
EU engagement in Geneva
The visit demonstrated the European Union’s resolve as a reliable and constructive partner to the United Nations. Through political dialogue, operational cooperation and financial support, the EU is the largest international donor to strengthen protection frameworks, support host countries and promote sustainable solutions for refugees and migrants worldwide.
