What does it take to turn financial inclusion from a policy promise into a lived reality for refugees?

This was the central question explored at a dynamic Side Event during UNHCR’s 76th Executive Committee session.

Organised by UNHCR’s Sustainable Responses Service (SRS), the event brought together governments, financial institutions, development organisations, and refugee entrepreneurs to discuss one shared goal: making financial services truly accessible to those forced to flee.

Self-reliance lies at the heart of UNHCR’s mission, and expanding access to financial services is a key step towards it. The event showcased how policy, innovation, and partnerships are shaping the landscape of financial inclusion for refugees across diverse contexts.

Welcount’s Perspective: From Experience to Innovation

Among the inspiring voices of the day was Rooh Savar, a refugee entrepreneur from Iran living in France since 2009 and the founder of Welcount (formerly Welcome Account).

He shared how his personal journey inspired the creation of a neobank for newcomers, built to make banking and integration simpler for refugees and migrants alike.

“Refugees often don’t fit in the boxes of traditional banking,” Rooh said, explaining that while fintech innovation can make access easier, real progress requires systemic change — not just new products.

At Welcount, we share this belief.

Our mission is to empower newcomers through inclusive digital banking tools that promote autonomy, dignity, and trust. We believe collaboration between the public sector, NGOs, and inclusive fintech actors is key to building sustainable and human-centred systems.

You can read the original article published by UNHCR here:

👉 Bridging Policy & Solutions — Highlights from ExCom Side Event