Brazil launches new program to welcome Afghan Refugees

Brazil has launched a new humanitarian program to resettle Afghan refugees, offering shelter, support, and integration through civil society.

The first group of Afghan refugees has arrived in Brazil as part of the newly launched “Refugees with Civil Society Support” program. This initiative, a collaboration between the Brazilian government and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), aims to offer refuge to displaced Afghan families.

On May 1, a group of 18 individuals, including four families with women, children, and teenagers, arrived in São Paulo from Pakistan. This marks a significant step forward in the effort to provide a safe haven for Afghan refugees, particularly in the context of ongoing political instability and human rights violations in Afghanistan.

The non-governmental organization (NGO) “Refúgio,” appointed by the Brazilian government to implement the program, will be responsible for settling and supporting up to 500 refugees by 2025. Other organizations, such as “Instituto Estor Refugiado” and “Mission Support for Persecuted Churches,” will also host additional refugees, contributing to a larger network of support.

The program allows accredited organizations and institutions to help facilitate the refugee application process by introducing them to humanitarian visa opportunities. In addition to offering housing, rights access, and social integration, UNHCR will provide legal support and training, while coordinating efforts with local governments.

David Turzilli, the UNHCR representative in Brazil, praised the initiative, calling it “commendable and hopeful.” He highlighted the critical importance of financial support from private donors and the mobilization of civil society, noting that this model could serve as a viable template for future refugee programs. With global refugee resettlement capacity declining, Brazil’s actions offer a beacon of hope for many displaced individuals.

The program is a continuation of Brazil’s efforts since 2020 to recognize the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. So far, over 13,000 humanitarian visas have been issued, with the latest initiative marking a further commitment to providing asylum to those in need.

While Brazil’s program is an important step in addressing the needs of Afghan refugees, the broader global context presents challenges. As the situation in Afghanistan worsens, with millions facing persecution, the demand for resettlement has skyrocketed.

However, global resettlement programs are increasingly overwhelmed, with a severe reduction in capacity. According to the UN, the global resettlement capacity has dropped sharply, from about 195,000 refugees in 2024 to a projected 31,000 in 2025, significantly limiting the ability to support those displaced by conflict.

This stark contrast between the growing demand for refugee resettlement and the diminishing resources underscores the urgency of initiatives like Brazil’s. It also highlights the need for continued international cooperation and funding to ensure that vulnerable populations, particularly Afghan refugees, receive the support and safety they urgently require.

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