Former UN High Commissioner Filippo Grandi Receives Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun

Filippo Grandi, the former UN High Commissioner for Refugees, has been awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun in the Spring 2026 Decorations.

For over 30 years, Mr. Grandi has dedicated himself to the protection and support of refugees and internally displaced persons, significantly advancing humanitarian efforts globally. Serving as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees for ten years from 2016, he led the UNHCR in responding to increasingly severe humanitarian crises around the world.

Mr. Grandi also played a pivotal role in strengthening the partnership with Japan. In the 1990s, he supported the activities of the UNHCR under then-High Commissioner Sadako Ogata, working to enhance collaboration with the Japanese government, private sector, and civil society. Based on this experience, he continued to prioritize relations with Japan during his tenure, deepening cooperation under the spirit of the Global Compact on Refugees.

On May 12, 2026, the investiture ceremony was held at the Imperial Palace. Upon receiving the decoration, Mr. Grandi stated, "I am deeply honored to return to Japan and receive such a prestigious award. I have always felt the importance and significance of support from Japan on the ground, and I am delighted to be given this opportunity in a country with which I have a deep connection." He also called for further solidarity and support from the Japanese people ahead of World Refugee Day on June 20.