NAIROBI, Kenya- In a sobering message for World Refugee Day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres reported that over 120 million people have been forced from their homes due to conflict, climate chaos, and upheaval.
Of these, 43.5 million have crossed national borders, marking a record number of displaced individuals.
This situation, he said, is “fuelling profound human suffering” while honoring the strength and courage of those affected.
The Urgent Need for Global Solidarity
Drawing attention to the plight of refugees, Guterres emphasized the necessity for global solidarity and support.
“Refugees need global solidarity and the ability to rebuild their lives in dignity,” he stated.
Given the opportunity, refugees can make significant contributions to their host communities, but they need access to equal opportunities, including jobs, housing, and healthcare.
Education for young refugees is crucial, and generous host nations require resources to fully integrate refugees into society and the labor force.
Guterres called for a reaffirmation of the world’s collective responsibility to assist and welcome refugees, uphold their human rights, and ultimately resolve the conflicts causing displacement.
Spotlight on Sudan: A Humanitarian Crisis
Ahead of World Refugee Day, UNHCR Chief Filippo Grandi highlighted the dire situation at the border between Sudan and South Sudan.
“The picture is rarely as desperate as where I am now, in Jamjang, South Sudan,” Grandi noted.
Nearly 700,000 people have crossed from Sudan, fleeing devastating conflict.
Rival militaries began fighting in and around Khartoum in April last year, leading to over 15,000 deaths and displacing almost 9.5 million people, including nearly two million across Sudan’s borders.
Grandi pointed out that many South Sudanese who had fled the civil war are now being forced back to struggling villages.
Meanwhile, Sudanese teachers, doctors, shopkeepers, and farmers must now navigate life as refugees.
He emphasized that the majority of the world’s refugees live in countries with low or modest incomes, challenging the misconception that most seek refuge in Europe or the United States.
Keeping Hope Alive Amidst Crisis
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Grandi highlighted reasons for hope and progress on this international day.
For instance, a new development plan in Kenya aims to transform legacy refugee camps into settlements with greater opportunities for advancement.
In Colombia, UNHCR is supporting a government initiative to include almost 2.3 million Venezuelan refugees in the labor market. Similarly, in Ukraine, efforts are underway to support people cautiously returning to rebuild their homes.
Grandi stressed the importance of long-term thinking, focusing on sustainability, and working with governments and development partners.
