Geneva: Global displacement has surged to record levels, nearly doubling in less than a decade, as humanitarian funding cuts leave millions without assistance and asylum debates grow increasingly polarized, outgoing UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi told Anadolu in exclusive remarks.
According to Anadolu Agency, Grandi highlighted that the total number of people forced to flee their homes now stands at an alarming 117.3 million. This marks a significant increase from the start of 2016, when Grandi took up his role as head of UNHCR, when the figure was just over 65 million. He explained that the persistence of conflicts, often lasting years or even decades, has led to prolonged exile for many refugees.
Grandi emphasized the challenges faced by the international community in keeping pace with the scale of displacement, which is exacerbated by political divisions and shrinking aid budgets. He described this situation as "discouraging," noting that approximately 11.6 million displaced people have lost assistance this year due to cuts in humanitarian funding. Additionally, some asylum policies are reportedly breaching or nearing the legal limits set by international law.
Despite these difficulties, Grandi expressed that the global refugee protection framework remains resilient. He pointed to the enduring principles of international protection and the commitment of those involved in humanitarian work. The UNHCR continues to collaborate with governments to find longer-term solutions for refugees, with regional cooperation efforts presenting potential pathways toward more sustainable responses.
Grandi highlighted the importance of responsibility sharing by host countries and communities as critical in preventing long-term dependency. He praised the ongoing efforts of various stakeholders, including governments, organizations, and ordinary citizens, in supporting refugees and integrating them into host societies' labor, education, and health systems.
Acknowledging the need for political and financial commitment to implement inclusive policies, Grandi underscored the role of partnerships in easing the burden on host countries and expanding opportunities for displaced individuals. He mentioned the Global Refugee Forums of 2019 and 2023, as well as the 2018 Global Compact on Refugees, as examples of initiatives aimed at achieving these goals.
Reflecting on the Syrian crisis, Grandi commended Trkiye's role in hosting refugees. Despite the challenges, Trkiye has continued to support over 3 million Syrians. Grandi noted that recent returns to Syria, following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad last December, demonstrate that displacement does not have to be permanent. He emphasized that when conditions are right, people are willing to return to their home communities.