Statement delivered by Ms Pille Kesler, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Estonia.
Mr. Chair,
High Commissioner,
Estonia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.
To begin with, Estonia extends its deepest gratitude to UNHCR for its unwavering commitment to protecting human dignity and for its vital work in the face of global crises. In an increasingly difficult world, UNHCR continues to protect those most at risk, provide life-saving assistance, uphold the right to asylum, and help communities rebuild in multiple humanitarian crises. As we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention, its principles face increasing pressure. Estonia remains committed to the Convention and to supporting UNHCR in upholding international refugee protection.
Regrettably, we must once again underline that Russia’s continued war of aggression against Ukraine constitutes a blatant and systematic violation of the UN Charter and international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law. The Russian Federation, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, continues its deliberate attacks on Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure, seeking to make Ukrainian cities increasingly uninhabitable. Daily strikes also target logistics networks, healthcare facilities, civilian residential building, schools, humanitarian workers and aid warehouses, while drones are being used to deliberately hunt civilians. September 2026 marked the deadliest month for civilians in Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale war in February 2022.
The daily horrors also extend to the forcibly occupied territories – today, our attention must also turn to Oleshky, where the occupying forces are purposefully starving civilians and preventing them from leaving. In addition, through intentional attacks on fields, farmers and agricultural warehouses, Russia is also threatening global food security, further driving people from their homes and forcing them into displacement. Estonia will continue its unwavering support for Ukraine, both through humanitarian assistance and by welcoming those forced to flee their homes.
In addition, we cannot ignore the continued spread of misinformation and the instrumentalization of migrants by Russia, Belarus and human smugglers, a challenge that extends far beyond our region. These actions are deliberate attempts to undermine international law, weaken unity in upholding the rules-based international order, and exploit people displaced from their homes and in need of international protection.
Mr. Chair,
In light of current financial constraints, we acknowledge the difficult decisions UNHCR has had to make as part of its ongoing restructuring. Predictable funding remains essential, and Estonia has already made its regular contribution for 2027. We trust that UNHCR will continue to actively engage in the Humanitarian Reset and UN80 initiatives, strengthening cooperation with humanitarian partners, particularly IOM. Data management and digital innovation must also remain a key priority in advancing humanitarian reform, improving efficiency and ensuring that limited resources reach those most in need.
We welcome the “50 by 35 vision”; however, protection must remain at the heart of this solutions-focused agenda. We encourage UNHCR to listen to, support and meaningfully engage NGOs throughout this process, while ensuring that internally displaced persons are also included in these efforts. We also welcome the new 2027–2030 multi-year country strategies, which give countries a greater role in setting priorities and place stronger emphasis on local contexts. Finally, we greatly value UNHCR’s continued presence in Tallinn and the excellent cooperation we enjoy with the local office team.
Estonia reiterates its appreciation for UNHCR’s tireless efforts to protect the world’s most vulnerable and improve their situation. UNHCR can continue to count on Estonia’s steadfast support.
Thank you.