Despite the best efforts of humanitarian organizations, refugees face many obstacles in their quest for safety and stability. They flee with little but the clothes on their backs, leaving behind homes, livelihoods, family members and loved ones. Often, they are displaced for extended periods of time. They are deprived of food, water and shelter. They are exposed to gang violence and other forms of discrimination, and they are at increased risk of human rights violations.

Displacement is often caused by political upheaval, armed conflict and natural disaster. These factors, combined with rising global poverty and climate change, are driving people from their homes. In the 21st century, refugee populations are growing at an unprecedented rate. The global community must rethink its approach to asylum and resettlement, as well as its policies for supporting host countries, in order to address the current crisis.

The vast majority of the world’s refugees are displaced within their own countries. In 2024, two-thirds of the worldwide refugee population lived in their first country of asylum (as defined by the UNHCR). While many governments restrict freedom of movement and the right to work for refugees, allowing these residents more autonomy can reduce tensions, reduce dependency on aid and stimulate local economies.

Governments must ensure that their citizens, especially middle and high-income countries, share responsibility for protecting the most vulnerable. In addition, they should increase access to essential services for refugees and facilitate local integration in order to create hospitable environments.