Record-breaking 114 million people displaced worldwide, says UN
According to a statement by the United Nations on Wednesday, the number of people globally living in forced displacement from their homes has reached a record figure of over 114 million. The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, stated that this number represents individuals displaced by war, persecution, violence, and human rights violations. The primary drivers behind this displacement during the first half of 2023 were conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, Afghanistan experienced a prolonged humanitarian crisis, while Somalia faced a combination of drought, floods, and insecurity.
The UNHCR emphasized the urgency of addressing the escalating number of conflicts around the world. Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, highlighted the necessity for the international community to find solutions and prevent further displacement and suffering. The inability to resolve conflicts or prevent new ones has resulted in this global crisis, and it is crucial to work together to allow refugees and displaced individuals to return home or rebuild their lives.
The Mid-Year Trends Report published by UNHCR revealed that by the end of June 2023, the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide reached 110 million, marking a 1.6 million increase since the end of 2022. This figure is the highest recorded since UNHCR began collecting data in 1975. Notably, more than half of all individuals forced to flee do not cross an international border.
The report also highlighted the significant role played by specific countries in global displacement. Nearly one-third of all forcibly displaced people originated from Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine. The ongoing situations in Gaza, Sudan, and other regions may make the prospects of peace and solutions seem distant. However, Filippo Grandi stressed the importance of persisting with efforts to find resolutions for refugees and other displaced populations.
Addressing displacement requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes peace, stability, and cooperation among nations. Initiatives to prevent conflicts, protect human rights, and support the safe return of displaced individuals should be central to the international agenda. While the current focus is rightly on Gaza, it is crucial to address other conflicts across the globe that continue to uproot innocent lives. By working together, the international community can alleviate the suffering and create a more peaceful world.
