Global Displacement Crisis
The global displacement crisis has reached alarming levels as of April 2025. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported that 122.1 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide. This figure marks the urgent need for international attention and support. Despite a slight decrease in numbers from the previous year, the overall situation remains critical.
Current Displacement Statistics
By April 2025, the number of forcibly displaced people rose by 2.1 million compared to the previous year. The total of 122.1 million includes refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). In 2024, the total peaked at 123.2 million. The ongoing conflicts in various regions continue to drive these numbers higher.
Major Drivers of Displacement
Conflicts in countries such as Sudan, Myanmar, and Ukraine remain the primary causes of displacement. Sudan has overtaken Syria as the country with the most displaced individuals, recording 14.3 million. Syria follows closely with 13.5 million displaced. Other contributors include Afghanistan with 10.3 million and Ukraine with 8.8 million.
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
The number of IDPs has surged, reaching 73.5 million by the end of 2024. This indicates that 60% of those forced to flee do not cross international borders. The report marks that proportion of refugees, about 67%, reside in neighbouring countries.
Refugee Hosting Countries
Low and middle-income nations host the majority of refugees. The largest populations are found in Iran (3.5 million), Turkey (2.9 million), Colombia (2.8 million), Germany (2.7 million), and Uganda (1.8 million). This challenges the perception that wealthier nations are the primary destinations for refugees.
Trends in Return Migration
Despite the challenges, there have been positive developments. Nearly 2 million Syrians returned home in the last six months, marking trend in return migration. Overall, 9.8 million displaced individuals returned in 2024, including both refugees and IDPs.
Funding Challenges
The UNHCR faces severe funding shortfalls. Many countries have reduced their financial contributions, impacting humanitarian efforts. The report calls for renewed international commitment to support UNHCR programs. It emphasises that funding is essential for regional and global stability.
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