What is World Refugee Day?
A UN-designated day on June 20 to honour refugees worldwide and raise awareness of their needs and rights.
The global refugee crisis has now reached unprecedented levels.
Over 122 million people have been forcibly displaced worldwide due to conflict, persecution, and violence – this number includes refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and asylum seekers.
Here’s what you need to know to better understand how we can collectively offer support to those most vulnerable.
1. The Global Displacement Crisis is at an All-Time High
According to the UNHCR, more than 122 million people are currently displaced globally.
This includes:
- 43.4 million refugees
- 63.3 million internally displaced persons (IDPs)
- 6.9 million asylum seekers
Notably, about 69% of refugees are hosted by neighbouring countries – but many of these countries face their own economic or political struggles.
This means the burden of caring for displaced people often falls on countries least equipped to handle it.
2. Women and Children are Disproportionately Affected
Women and children make up more than half of the global refugee population.
In 2023, 47 million forcibly displaced people were children under the age of 18 – a staggering 40% of the total number of those displaced.
Between 2018 and 2023, approximately 2 million children were born as refugees, highlighting the generational impact of displacement.
These children face extremely high risks of malnutrition, exploitation, and lack of access to education.
Find out more about how you can sponsor vulunerable women and children here.
3. Education Remains a Critical Challenge
Education is one of the greatest barriers for refugee children:
- 68% of refugee children enroll in primary school.
- Only 37% go on to secondary school.
- A mere 6% pursue higher education.
Access to education for refugee children remains worryingly low.
This gap severely limits their opportunities for stable employment and integration into host societies – perpetuating cycles of poverty and dependence.
Here’s how you can directly support a vulnerable child’s education.
4. Humanitarian Aid is Declining
Despite record-high displacement figures, global humanitarian aid is shrinking. Many powerful nations have cut their donations, leaving organisations underfunded.
This decline means less food, limited healthcare, and inadequate shelter for millions already living in precarious conditions.
5. You Can Make a Difference
While the crisis can feel overwhelming, your individual actions truly matter. Here are practical ways to help:
Donate to Trusted Organizations
The Holy Quran states:
لَن تَنَالُواْ ٱلۡبِرَّ حَتَّىٰ تُنفِقُواْ مِمَّا تُحِبُّونَۚ وَمَا تُنفِقُواْ مِن شَيْءٍ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ بِهِۦ عَلِيمٌ
“You shall never attain the perfect standard of righteousness until you spend in charity from the wealth that you love; and whatever you spend, Allāh surely knows it.” (Quran 3:92)
Your donation can fund food, shelter, clean water, medical care, and education. Trusted organisations include:
Sponsor or Advocate Locally
Many countries have community sponsorship programmes where you can help a refugee family rebuild their life.
Volunteer Your Skills
Offer language tutoring, legal assistance, or professional mentoring through local refugee aid organisations.
Raise Awareness
Share reliable information on social media. Organise community talks. Challenge myths and prejudice with facts.
Conclusion: A Shared Responsibility
World Refugee Day is more than a symbolic day of the year.
It is a reminder that millions rely on our compassion, solidarity, and action.
Every donation, every word spoken, and every hour volunteered brings hope to those who need it most.
Let us rise to this shared responsibility, as people of faith, conscience, and a shared humanity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many refugees are there in 2025?
Over 122 million people are displaced globally, including refugees, IDPs, and asylum seekers.
What is the difference between a refugee and an asylum seeker?
A refugee has legal status and protection; an asylum seeker is applying for protection but awaits a decision.
How are children impacted by forced displacement?
Millions lose access to education, healthcare, and family support — deepening poverty and trauma
How can I help refugees near me?
Donate, volunteer, sponsor, or advocate through local community organizations.
Which trusted organisations help refugees?
UNHCR, The Zahra Trust, and Canadian Council for Refugees are reputable options
