The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Belgium,Switzerland, Panama, Thailand, Kenya, Senegal, Jordan, other locations
Sector
Health / Social work Social work activities without accommodation Other social work activities without accommodation 88.99 - Other social work activities without accommodation n.e.c.
3,000 - 4,000 jobs Number of planned job losses
Announcement Date
29 April 2025
Employment effect (start)
29 April 2025
Foreseen end date
31 December 2025
Description
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced it will cut between 3,000 and 4,000 jobs globally.
The layoffs are part of a broad cost-reduction plan driven by major funding cuts, especially from the United States, which previously contributed around $2 billion annually. The agency plans to reduce staff costs by 30% and has begun sending out layoff notices, affecting both headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and all regional offices operating in Belgium, Panama, Thailand, Kenya, Senegal, and Jordan. The agency plans to cut senior-level positions by 50%. Some country offices will also be closed, although the full scale of closures has not been disclosed.
The cuts are expected to severely impact core services such as food, clean water, medical aid, emergency shelter, and education. The staff union has criticised the lack of consultation in the downsizing process.
Founded in 1950, UNHCR employs about 15,000 people worldwide.
Eurofound (2025), UNHCR, Internal restructuring in World, factsheet number 202874, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://dev.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/202874.
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