We can build a Nation of Sanctuary

Thirty-five years ago, the world watched as history unfolded. People everywhere stopped what they were doing to witness Nelson Mandela walk free from prison—a moment that symbolised hope, change, and the fight for justice. Mandela wasn’t just a leader; he was a beacon of resilience and fairness, showing us what’s possible when we stand up for what’s right.

Woman presenting information to a room of people.

Here in Wales, that same spirit of justice and inclusion was alive. On 11 February 1990, as Mandela took his first steps of freedom, a group of refugees, politicians, and community organisers came together to launch the Welsh Refugee Council. Our mission was simple but powerful: to offer practical support and a sense of belonging to people forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution, and hardship.

Fast forward 35 years, and we’re still here—proudly standing alongside sanctuary seekers and refugees. In that time, we’ve supported tens of thousands of people, helping families find safety, guiding individuals towards education and jobs, and fighting for fair policies that uphold dignity and justice. We’ve also worked hard to challenge harmful misconceptions, break down barriers, and make sure that Wales is a place where everyone, no matter where they’re from, is met with kindness and opportunity.

Now, as we celebrate our 35th anniversary, we’re looking forward to an even bigger goal: making Wales the world’s first Nation of Sanctuary. It’s a vision that brings together communities, charities, and political leaders across the country—because a truly welcoming Wales is something we can all believe in.

Group of people sat outside the Senedd.

But we know that words alone won’t make this happen. That’s why we’re committed to real action—removing the obstacles that prevent people seeking sanctuary from accessing vital services, and creating practical solutions to help them thrive. By working together, we can turn this vision into reality, ensuring that Wales isn’t just a place of safety, but a place where people can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Here’s to 35 years of welcome—and to building a future where sanctuary is more than just a word, but a way of life.

Read Sanctuary Coalition Cymru’s vision for a Nation of Sanctuary                     

Today, as we do every day, we’ll be celebrating the amazing individuals and communities who work together to create a Wales that welcomes and supports sanctuary seekers and refugees. To find out more about how you can be involved, get in touch with our team.