Budget and Expenditure

UNHCR's activities are based on an annual budget that reflects global needs. It includes a budget for the coming calendar year, which is submitted to the UNHCR Executive Committee for approval in October, and subsequent Supplementary Budgets that reflect needs arising from new emergencies during the year.

UNHCR appeals for funding on the basis of these approved budgets, and its expenditure is a function of the quantity and quality of funding that it receives.

For further information about 2024, please read the Global Appeal 2024 chapter on Funding UNHCR's programmes.

Country Operational Technical Support (COTS)

As of 2024, country and regional programmes include a budget line for country operational technical support. This refers to a set of activities that directly benefit operations in the achievement of their intended results and that were previous reported under global programmes or Headquarters.

Regarding the country operational technical support, the proposed increase of $27.6 million, or 21%, from $132.3 million in 2023 (restated) to $159.9 million in 2024 reflects innovative partnerships and investments planned in three projects, which are expected to improve procurement and reduce the environmental impact of UNHCR operations.

Global budget

Total expenditure

Budget by region

Source: 2024 budget as approved by the Executive Committee in October 2023.
2023 current budget as approved by the High Commissioner as of October 2023; pending presentation to the ExCom's Standing Committee.
All other years are considered final for budget and expenditure data.

Financials