Millions of people around the world today are displaced by violence and war. They are refugees, internally displaced people (IDPs) or asylum seekers. Displacement is a result of conflict and persecution, and it can cause long-term harm, including trauma and economic deprivation for those forced to flee.
Refugee crisis is a global problem and a humanitarian emergency, requiring urgent, long-term action. It’s important to remember that the best way to solve this crisis is to end the conflict and persecution that causes it. However, a lack of political will and chronic underfunding mean that the international community has let down people fleeing from war and oppression.
In addition, a lack of solidarity amongst wealthy nations means that only a few countries bear the responsibility for protecting the majority of the world’s refugees. This needs to change, especially for European and other middle to high-income states. They must increase their efforts and take their fair share, so that people can stay close to their families.
Finally, we need to investigate and prosecute traffickers who exploit people and put their lives at risk. Amnesty has met survivors in Southeast Asia who were kidnapped by gangs, and others who died after their boats capsized trying to reach land. We must put people’s safety before all else, and combat all kinds of xenophobia and racial discrimination.
It’s also vital to give refugees more freedom of movement and rights, like the right to work. This reduces tensions and can actually boost local economies, even if the jobs are illegal or informal.