France

As of December 31, 2020, there were 455,295 refugees and persons under other forms of international protection in France, according to the French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (OFPRA). The main countries of origin are Afghanistan, Syria, Sri Lanka, Russia and DRC.

UNHCR's Representation in France has been in operation since 1952. It provides advice to the French authorities and asylum institutions. The office works in close contact with various actors, including national and local authorities, the civil society, the private sector, universities, and the media, to promote the cause of refugees and pursue legal pathways. The Representation also develops partnerships to help refugees integrate in France, focusing on their direct participation.

The office raises awareness on situations of forced displacement globally and the need for increased solidarity in line with the Global Compact on Refugees.