World Refugee Day
June 20 of each year comes to shed light on the suffering of refugees, whose numbers continue to rise annually due to geopolitical, economic, and environmental developments. The numbers of displaced and homeless people also increase as a result of wars, armed conflicts, and natural disasters, which are a reflection of these developments.
Refugees are also exposed to global risks such as deportation, violence, exploitation, and other violations of their human rights, while the impacts of climate change and environmental disasters further exacerbate the vulnerability that refugees already face.
When we look at this severe humanitarian suffering, we find that approximately 40% of all refugees and displaced persons are children, which deepens the extent of the hardship and underscores the urgent need to find sustainable solutions so that future generations may enjoy the blessings of security, stability, and access to education and healthcare.
This year, UNICEF launched an appeal to secure $9.9 billion in funding to support children affected by conflicts and crises, aiming to reach 109 million children in refugee and displacement settings with comprehensive humanitarian assistance and to meet their basic needs. It is important to note that every day we witness a growing number of children who are affected and suffer from harsh living conditions and numerous humanitarian challenges, such as physical and psychological illnesses, lack of access to education and proper upbringing, and the unavailability of essential needs.
Despite the efforts of international organizations such as the UNHCR, UNICEF, and many others, along with the financial contributions amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars, these organizations remain unable to cover all the expenses required to meet the growing needs of refugees. This underscores the need for greater financial support and intensified international efforts to alleviate their suffering, provide for their necessities, and protect their rights.
From this perspective, it is imperative that these organizations and agencies base their efforts on delivering aid through sustainable development projects that address humanitarian needs and focus on rehabilitating displaced families and individuals in line with their skills and academic or professional capabilities. This approach empowers them to support themselves rather than depend on aid, turning them into a productive human resource capable of rebuilding their communities, accessing education and training opportunities, and making use of the natural resources available in their areas.
Recent estimates have indicated a 20% increase in the number of refugees—equivalent to half a million people—compared to 2024. This rise is attributed to mass displacement, the emergence of new conflicts, the effects of climate change, rising living costs, declining humanitarian aid, and the growing prevalence of racial discrimination and anti-refugee sentiment. In addition, social challenges persist, as tensions frequently arise between refugees and host communities.
Hence, there is a need for international cooperation to gather comprehensive data on refugees, establish clear mechanisms for their reception, and promote the exchange of information and expertise. Such collaboration is vital for developing effective programs and strategies, securing the necessary funding, and ultimately easing the burdens of displacement that refugees endure.
Fatima bint Mubarak
