Ouagadougou: The National Commission for Refugees (CONAREF) has announced the program for the upcoming World Refugee Day (WRD) 2026, set to be held in Ouahigouya from June 18 to 20. This event will mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and will emphasize enhancing social cohesion and socioeconomic integration of refugees in Burkina Faso.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the commemoration, organized in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), aims to foster a peaceful coexistence between refugees and host communities. The initiative seeks to encourage refugees' contributions to local development, as highlighted by CONAREF Permanent Secretary Vl Fulbert Traor.

On a national level, the theme will be "Reception and social cohesion: how to strengthen the links between refugees and host populations for better socio-economic integration in Burkina Faso?" Internationally, the theme "Until everyone is safe" has been chosen. The Permanent Secretary explained that safety encompasses more than just shelter; it involves access to education, healthcare, employment, and the ability to build a dignified future.

The celebration will feature various activities such as field visits, civic actions under the Faso Mªbo initiative, sports competitions to reinforce community ties, and exchange meetings between stakeholders involved in refugee protection. A significant novelty for this edition is the involvement of the private sector, which aims to facilitate dialogue on professional integration and explore economic opportunities for refugees residing in Burkina Faso.

Burkina Faso currently hosts over 45,000 refugees, exemplifying the nation's dedication to solidarity, hospitality, and fraternity among peoples, as stated by the Permanent Secretary of CONAREF.