UNHCR The UN's refugee agency Geneva, Switzerland

UNHCR, commonly known as the UN refugee agency, is mandated to lead and coordinate international action to protect and assist displaced people around the world and to help find lasting solutions for them.

Set up with modest goals in 1950, UNHCR has since helped tens of millions of people, picking up two Nobel Peace Prizes along the way for its vital humanitarian work.

For those forced to flee their homes, normally because of war or persecution, the UN refugee agency is often the last hope for a return to a normal life. Today, a staff of around 6,300 in some 120 countries help some 43.3 million people in need.