On June 14, 2023, the UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR, released its annual report on the global displacement crisis, and the findings paint a stark and alarming picture. The report reveals that the number of forcibly displaced individuals has reached an unprecedented high, with 108.4 million people worldwide uprooted from their homes due to persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations, and other events that disrupt public order. This represents a staggering increase of 19 million people compared to the previous year, making it the largest ever year-on-year increase in forced displacement.

These statistics are not just numbers; they represent the lives of individuals and families who have been torn apart, their dreams shattered, and their futures uncertain. More than 1 in every 74 people on Earth is now a forcibly displaced person, a staggering figure that demands immediate attention and action from the international community.

One of the most concerning aspects of the report is the speed and scale of displacement resulting from the invasion of Ukraine. This crisis has become one of the largest and fastest displacement crises since World War II, with 11.6 million Ukrainians forced to flee their homes by the end of 2022. The impact of this conflict on the lives of millions of people cannot be overstated, and the international community must rally to provide support and assistance to those affected.

Moreover, the report highlights ongoing conflicts and insecurity in various parts of the world. Countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, and Myanmar continue to witness widespread displacement, with over a million people forced to flee their homes in each of these nations. These crises have profound humanitarian consequences, as families are uprooted from their communities, children are deprived of education, and vulnerable individuals are exposed to exploitation and violence.

The global displacement crisis demands urgent action and a renewed commitment from the international community to protect and support those who have been forcibly displaced. This crisis is not just a regional or national issue; it is a shared responsibility that requires collective efforts and cooperation to find lasting solutions.

First and foremost, governments around the world must prioritize the protection of displaced individuals and ensure their safety. This includes upholding the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the forced return of individuals to places where their lives or freedoms are at risk. Additionally, countries must work together to address the root causes of displacement, including conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the promotion of human rights.

Furthermore, adequate resources must be allocated to humanitarian organizations, such as UNHCR, to enable them to effectively respond to the growing needs of displaced populations. Funding shortfalls have hindered the ability to provide essential services, such as shelter, healthcare, and education, to those in need. Donor countries should step up their contributions and fulfill their commitments to alleviate the suffering of forcibly displaced individuals.

In addition, it is crucial to prioritize long-term solutions for displaced populations. This entails investing in initiatives that promote self-reliance, empower communities, and create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all, regardless of their displacement status. Efforts should be made to ensure that displaced children and youth have access to quality education, which will equip them with the skills they need to rebuild their lives and contribute to the future development of their communities.

Lastly, fostering international solidarity and sharing the responsibility for displaced populations is vital. No single country can tackle this crisis alone. Governments, civil society organizations, and individuals must work together, across borders, to provide support, welcome refugees, and advocate for inclusive and compassionate policies.

The UNHCR's annual report serves as a wake-up call to the world. The growing global displacement crisis requires immediate action to protect the rights and dignity of forcibly displaced individuals. We must not turn a blind eye to the suffering of millions, but rather strive to create a world where no one is forced to flee their home. It is only through concerted efforts, political will, and international cooperation that we can address the root causes of displacement and build a more just and inclusive future for all.

Author’s blurb: Justin D. Bibee is a human rights advocate and peacebuilding scholar.