Five Key Facts About Refugees on World Refugee Day
Each year on June 20th, World Refugee Day serves as a global reminder to honor refugees and displaced individuals who have had to flee their homes. At BRAC, we believe every refugee holds immense potential, though they often lack the opportunity to realize it. This World Refugee Day, we’re highlighting the challenges refugees face, sharing their inspiring stories, and urging global action to support them. Here are five important things to know about refugees:
1. Over 110 Million People Are Displaced Worldwide
Globally, more than 117.3 million individuals are displaced, including refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons. The number of refugees has tripled in the last decade due to escalating conflicts, wars, hunger, and natural disasters. While media and donor attention often surge during crises, refugees frequently face neglect once the spotlight fades. At BRAC, our commitment to supporting refugees persists beyond the immediate crisis.
2. Children Make Up Two-Fifths of Refugees
Around 40% of refugees are children, with approximately 47 million forcibly displaced. The trauma of displacement can severely affect their development and future opportunities. BRAC’s Humanitarian Play Labs provide a safe space for these children to play, heal, and build resilience. By integrating playful learning and psychosocial support, these labs help children from both refugee and host communities thrive.
3. Low-Income Countries Host Most Refugees
Three-quarters of the world’s refugees are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, which face their own challenges and often lack the resources to fully support the influx of displaced people. Countries like Uganda and Bangladesh are major hosts, with Uganda accommodating nearly 1.7 million refugees and Bangladesh hosting around a million in Cox’s Bazar. Supporting these countries is crucial for refugee well-being.
4. Climate Change is Increasing Displacement
While conflict and famine have traditionally been major causes of displacement, climate change is now a significant factor. Extreme weather events like floods, droughts, and heatwaves are displacing people and exacerbating conditions for existing refugees. As climate-related hazards intensify, BRAC is helping families adapt and build resilience against these environmental challenges.
5. Refugees Have Limitless Potential
Despite the obstacles refugees face, they possess incredible potential when given the right opportunities. Take Edina’s story: after fleeing South Sudan and settling in Uganda, she leveraged BRAC’s dual-generation program to transform her life. By learning new skills and starting businesses, Edina now supports her family and invests in her children’s education. Her journey highlights the remarkable potential refugees have to rebuild their lives and thrive.
Make a Difference
World Refugee Day is a chance to spotlight the more than 110 million displaced people globally. While attention often wanes, BRAC remains dedicated to providing ongoing support. Your contribution can offer crucial opportunities for refugees. Donate today to help them rebuild their lives and unlock their potential.
Sarah Allen is Communications Manager at BRAC USA.
