Global Displacement Crisis: Record Numbers in 2023
In 2023, a record 117 million people were displaced worldwide due to war, natural disasters, and climate change, according to UN data. By early 2024, over 120 million people had been displaced. Victims like Muhumed in Kenya suffer as torrential rains destroy homes, forcing families into refugee camps. Displaced individuals fall into categories of refugees, internally displaced persons, and asylum seekers. Climate change exacerbates the situation, with countries like Sudan, Iran, and Turkey bearing significant burdens. Effective solutions, including climate-smart agriculture, are urgently needed.
In 2023, a record 117 million people were displaced worldwide due to war, natural disasters, and climate change, according to UN data.
This figure, which has doubled from a decade ago, continues to rise.
Dr. Leonie Ansems de Vries from King's College London explains that conflict, human rights abuses, and environmental degradation are primary causes of forced displacement.
By early 2024, over 120 million people had been displaced.
Victims like Muhumed in Kenya suffer as torrential rains destroy homes, forcing families into refugee camps.
Displaced individuals fall into categories: refugees, internally displaced persons, and asylum seekers.
In addition, climate change exacerbates the situation.
Andrew Harper of UNHCR emphasizes that changing climate conditions destroy livelihoods, raising tensions and causing further displacement.
Countries like Chad, Jordan, Ethiopia, and Kenya are hospitable despite having fewer resources.
Nations like Sudan, Iran, and Turkey bear significant burdens, hosting vast numbers of refugees.
Venezuela's economic collapse and healthcare breakdown forced people like Yosmary to seek refuge in Colombia.
The UNHCR's Manuel Marques Pereira highlights that displaced people often live in squalid conditions and are highly vulnerable to climate hazards.
By 2040, many host countries will face extreme climate-related risks.
Effective solutions, including climate-smart agriculture, are urgently needed.