The UN Refugee Agency will permanently close its national office in Trinidad and Tobago on August 31 due to global funding shortfalls.
The Port-of-Spain office will stop serving the public from July 25.
All operations will be managed remotely by the UNHCR’s Multi-Country Office in Panama, supported by a minimal staff presence in T&T.
“This decision was not taken lightly,” UNHCR said in a public notice. “Recent global events have deeply impacted funding for humanitarian and development organisations, including UNHCR and our partners. Although needs remain high, financial resources have declined, forcing budget restrictions globally, regionally, and locally.”
In its statement, the agency said to reduce misinformation and respond to growing concerns, it has created a Q&A section on its T&T website, offering verified updates and practical information for refugees and asylum seekers.
After August 31, persons of concern can email ttopo@unhcr.org, a mailbox monitored by the Panama office. Refugees and asylum seekers may also turn to UNHCR’s local partners for assistance: La Casita Hispanic Cultural Centre and the Caribbean Centre for Human Rights (CCHR). These organisations provide services free of charge.
UNHCR said it would continue to share information about public services available to all people in T&T, including access to primary and emergency healthcare and protection against labour exploitation.
Despite the office closure, UNHCR reaffirmed that protection under international law remains unchanged. T&T as a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, is expected to uphold the rights of refugees, including protection from refoulement and detention.
“UNHCR and its partners continue to work to ensure refugees are treated fairly and their rights respected,” the agency said.
It added that CCHR remains available for free legal support in cases of detention or threats of forced return.
UNHCR also confirmed it would keep advocating for a national asylum system and refugee rights in T&T.
