4 Facts You Need To Know For World Refugee week
World Refugee Week is designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It falls each year on June 20 and celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution.
Seeing the shared experience of COVID-19, it is evident we succeed if we stand together. We have all had to do our part to keep each other safe, and despite the challenges, refugees and displaced people around the world have stepped up.
Seeking asylum is not a crime and given a chance, refugees will continue to contribute to a stronger, safer and more vibrant world.
This year's global theme being: Together, we heal, learn and shine.
According to UNHCR here are the facts you need to know.
1. There are 79.5 million people around the world who have been forcibly displaced—the highest figure ever recorded.
2. About 1% of the world's population is displaced.
3. 50% of the world's refugees are children.
4. Developing countries host more than 85% of the world's refugees.
Every day, we are witness to the strength, creativity, and hard work of people from around the world. Yet, we often overlook the revolutionary work of refugees who, despite their struggle, still manage to make a change in their communities, like the communities of Gal-Barwaaqo and Adi Caddeeye.
Celebrating refugees on the week of June 20 is important, but acknowledging and supporting refugees throughout their journeys every day is also important. Leaving your home and your country because you fear persecution for your beliefs or background is something no human should endure. However, despite all their hardships, refugees everywhere have managed to adapt and create a better life for themselves, their families, their communities, and some have even managed to change the world.
