Number of refugees globally stood at 35.3 million by end of 2022: UNHCR

Tags: International News

According to the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), by the end of 2022, the global number of refugees will reach 35.3 million.

An overview of the news

• This figure represents an increase of more than eight million refugees from the previous year.

Most affected countries

• More than half of all refugees worldwide,52 percent, originated from three specific countries.

• These countries are Syria with a refugee population of 6.5 million, Ukraine with 5.7 million and Afghanistan with 5.7 million refugees.

Definition of refugee

• According to international law, refugees are persons who are forced to flee their home countries because of persecution or the presence of a serious threat to their life, physical well-being, or personal liberty.

• These persons seek protection in other countries.

World refugee day

• To draw attention to the plight of refugees globally, the United Nations designated 20 June as World Refugee Day.

• This annual festival serves as an opportunity to raise awareness and highlight the challenges faced by refugees around the world.

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

• It is an international organization mandated to protect and support refugees, as well as finding durable solutions to their displacement.

• It was established in 1950 to address the needs of refugees after World War II.

• It operates in various countries around the world, providing protection, assistance, and advocacy for refugees and other forcibly displaced persons. 

• Headquarter - Geneva, Switzerland