Sister Rosita Milesi, a Brazilian nun, lawyer, social worker, and movement builder, has been named this year’s global laureate for the UN refugee agency award. She has dedicated nearly 40 years to championing the rights and dignity of people on the move. Alongside Sister Rosita, four other regional winners have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the humanitarian response and finding solutions for refugees and displaced persons.
In a statement, UNHCR Filippo Grandi highlighted the heightened risks of discrimination and violence that women face, especially when forced to flee their homes. However, he also emphasized the crucial role that women play in driving action in their communities, building grassroots support, and shaping national policies. The five winners exemplify the resilience and dedication of women in the humanitarian field.
Sister Rosita Milesi has personally assisted thousands of individuals who have been forced to leave their homes or seek new opportunities in Brazil. She has helped them access legal documentation, shelter, food, healthcare, language training, and opportunities in the labor market. As a lawyer, Sister Rosita has also played a key role in shaping public policy, including Brazil’s 1997 refugee law, which aligns with international standards to protect, include, and empower people forced to move within the Central America region.
At 79 years old, Sister Rosita remains dedicated to supporting migrants and refugees. She is inspired by the increasing need to help, welcome, and integrate refugees into society. Despite the challenges she faces, Sister Rosita is determined to make a difference and turn the world upside down to achieve her goals.
The regional winners also embody the spirit of resilience and compassion in their respective regions. Maimouna Ba, the regional winner from Africa, has helped displaced children return to school and empowered women to achieve financial independence in Burkina Faso. Jin Davod, the winner from Europe, has utilized her experience as a Syrian refugee to connect trauma survivors with mental health support through an online platform.
Nada Fadol, the winner from the Middle East and North Africa region, has mobilized aid for refugee families fleeing to Egypt in search of safety. Deepti Gurung, the winner from the Asia-Pacific region, successfully campaigned for reforming Nepal’s citizenship laws to prevent statelessness among children, including her own daughters.
Additionally, the people of Moldova will receive an honorable mention for their compassionate response to the refugee crisis. Despite facing economic challenges, they have opened their schools, community spaces, and homes to over one million people fleeing the war in Ukraine, serving as a beacon of humanity in a time of crisis.
The UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award celebrates the unwavering dedication and courage of individuals and communities who go above and beyond to support refugees and displaced persons. Sister Rosita Milesi and the four regional winners exemplify the power of compassion, resilience, and advocacy in the face of adversity. Their work not only provides essential support to those in need but also inspires others to take action and make a difference in the lives of vulnerable populations around the world.
