The Finnish Refugee Council has named Syrian-born actor Youssef Asad Alkhatib as Refugee of the Year 2026, recognising his journey from fleeing war as a teenager to building a career on the Finnish stage. The announcement was made in Helsinki on Tuesday, ahead of World Refugee Day, with the organisation citing Alkhatib’s contribution to Finnish society and his work promoting dialogue between communities.
The journey from 15-year-old asylum seeker to Finnish actor has been one of learning and hope. Now Youssef Asad Alkhatib has been chosen as Refugee of the Year.