Every year on June 20th, the world comes together to recognise World Refugee Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of refugees worldwide and honouring their strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Being within data it is important for us to understand the global refugee crisis and use our skills to help improve the lives of those affected.
The current global refugee crisis is the largest since World War II, with an estimated 26 million refugees worldwide. Most of these individuals are fleeing violence, persecution, and conflict in their home countries. The top countries of origin for refugees are Syria, Afghanistan, South Sudan, Myanmar, and Somalia.
One of the biggest challenges facing refugees is access to basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter. Many refugees are forced to live in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, which can spread disease and other health problems. Additionally, refugees often face discrimination and xenophobia in the countries where they seek asylum, which can make it difficult for them to integrate and rebuild their lives.
According to the United Nations, the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the global refugee crisis, with many refugees facing increased health risks and limited access to healthcare. In addition, the pandemic has led to a decrease in funding for refugee programs and services, making it even more difficult to meet the needs of this vulnerable population.
Source: UNHCR Global Trends 2022
108.4 million forcibly displaced people worldwide at the end of 2022 as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations or events seriously disturbing public order.
62.5 million are internally displaced people
35.3 million are refugees
5.2 million are other people in need of international protection
43.3 million are children
Donations and fundraising: Coordinate company-wide donation drives or fundraising events dedicated to supporting organisations that focus on assisting refugees. Through these initiatives, they can gather essential supplies or raise funds to provide refugees with crucial resources. By supporting refugees through donations, we enable them to access basic necessities, healthcare, education, psychological support, advocacy, and increased awareness of their rights and needs.
Here are some charities you can support:
The UN Refugee Agency United Kingdom for UNHCR
International Rescue Committee
Action Aid
Save the Children
Volunteering: UNHCR does not take on volunteers in their UK office, but there are many refugee organisations across the country which depend on the support of volunteers, including:
British Red Cross
Refugee Action
Refugee Council
Scottish Refugee Council
Welsh Refugee Council
Partnerships and Collaborations: Enhance your collaboration with local refugee support organizations, NGOs, and government agencies to develop impactful programs and initiatives aimed at providing comprehensive support to refugees.
Mentorship and buddy programs: Establish mentorship or buddy programs where employees can support refugees in their professional and personal development.
Employment opportunities and colleagues: Provide job opportunities to refugees within your company. In addition to securing a livelihood and fostering integration within the local community, it is crucial to consider the accessibility of visas for all participants when organising away days or trips. Furthermore, it is important to support diverse cultural tastes and promote mutual learning among team members through engaging activities and shared meals from different cultures.
Language and cultural support: Offer language classes or language exchange programs to help refugees overcome language barriers. Promote cultural awareness and understanding among employees.
World Refugee Day is an important reminder of the millions of people around the world who are forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution. In order to make a meaningful difference in the lives of refugees, we need to work together with organisations and governments. This World Refugee Day, let us commit ourselves to using data analytics to help address the global refugee crisis and improve the lives of those who have been forced to flee their homes.
Together, we can make a difference.