“In the news: a sad record of 114 million people forcibly displaced across the world”
The United Nations recently published alarming figures: more than 114 million people are currently forcibly displaced around the world, a record number which reflects the multiple conflicts, humanitarian crises and episodes of drought affecting our planet. In this article, we will look at the causes of this phenomenon and the disastrous consequences it brings.
According to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the first half of 2023 was marked by a significant increase in population displacements. Conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, Burma and the Democratic Republic of Congo were the main causes of these massive displacements. Additionally, the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan as well as problems of drought, floods and insecurity in Somalia have also contributed to this critical situation.
It is important to note that more than half of these 114 million people were forced to cross a border to find refuge. Among the countries most affected by these forced displacements are Afghanistan, Syria and Ukraine, which alone represent almost a third of the world’s displaced people.
This sad observation highlights the spread and intensification of conflicts across the world, leading to the destruction of innocent lives and the uprooting of populations. UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi stressed the urgency of the situation, saying “far too many conflicts are proliferating or intensifying.”
The UNHCR report, compiling data for the first half of 2023, shows 110 million displaced people as of mid-June, 1.6 million more than the same period the previous year. The numbers continued to rise over the next three months, reaching an alarming 114 million by the end of September.
It is important to emphasize that these figures do not take into account internal displacement in the Gaza Strip since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas. According to the UN, around 1.4 million Palestinians have been displaced within the Gaza Strip since the start of hostilities.
This alarming situation requires urgent international action to help these millions of forcibly displaced people. It is essential to support the efforts of humanitarian organizations and find lasting solutions to resolve the conflicts and crises that cause these forced displacements.
In conclusion, the record of 114 million people forcibly displaced across the world is a cry of alarm that requires awareness and large-scale mobilization. It is time for the international community to come together to find viable and lasting solutions to put an end to these forced displacements and allow these millions of people to return to a stable and peaceful life.