Media Note
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
August 17, 2005


U.S. Contributes $26.1 Million to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees

The United States is pleased to announce an additional contribution to the
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) of $26.1 million for its
2005 Annual Programs. This contribution will help UNHCR address the needs of
more than 19 million refugees and other persons of concern. This contribution
brings the United States' contribution to UNHCR in fiscal year 2005 to over
$308 million. The contribution will provide assistance in the following
regions:

* Africa $11.6 million

* East Asia $ 1.1 million

* Global Operations/Headquarters $13.4 million

UNHCR is a key partner of the United States Government in critical humanitarian
endeavors in Afghanistan, Iraq, Sudan, Chad, Liberia, Colombia, and throughout
the world. U.S. support helps ensure refugees' lives and rights are adequately
protected; their basic food, shelter, health, and education needs are met; and
that they are able to return home once it is safe, or otherwise find a
permanent solution to their plight.

The United States believes that the protection and care of refugees and the
pursuit of permanent solutions for refugee crises are shared international
responsibilities. The United States calls on other donors to strengthen their
efforts in support of the programs of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.