UNHCR Canada

National initiative highlights how soccer is helping refugees in Canada build relationships and thrive

OTTAWA — One month ahead of the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, today launched More Than a G...

Héritier Masimengo arrived to Canada as a young refugee. Soccer helped him find community and belonging. Through coaching, community involvement, and leadership, Héritier continues to build bridges between cultures and communities.

Gratitude is the first thing people notice about Héritier Masimengo. 

Before speaking about his a...

On April 29, 2026, UNHCR Canada was invited to appear before the House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM) as part of its study of Canada’s immigration system. UNHCR Canada Representative Tracey Maulfair and Senior Legal Officer Azadeh Tamjeedi presented on behalf of UNHCR.  

Lucía continues preparing to achieve her dream of becoming a lawyer and to serve and provide access to justice for other people forced to flee. © UNHCR/Jacqueline Henriquez

Thanks to support from donors such as the Government of Canada, Lucía was able to rebuild her life far from threats and now contributes to the community that welcomed her....

Vehicles head southwards from the southern Lebanese city of Sidon on 17 April, the day of an announced ceasefire. © UNHCR/Elie Arja

This is a summary of what was said by Karolina Lindholm Billing, UNHCR Representative in Lebanon – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at today’s press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.