More Than 122 Million People Forcibly Displaced Worldwide

June 20, 2025

The UN refugee agency reports that global displacement due to violence and persecution has reached 122. 1 million people, representing nearly double the number from a decade ago. UNHCR's Global Trends Report, released on June 5, indicates a 9% increase in internally displaced persons to 73.

Who is affected

122.1 million people forcibly displaced globally
73.5 million internally displaced people
Over 14 million people displaced by conflict in Sudan
13.5 million displaced people from Syria
More than 10 million displaced Afghans
8.8 million displaced within or from Ukraine
Humanitarian groups facing budget cuts from the United States and other Western donors

What action is being taken

The UNHCR is monitoring and reporting on global displacement trends
Nearly 2 million Syrians are returning to their homes as their country attempts to recover
Some displaced people are returning home even as others are fleeing

Why it matters

The global displacement crisis has nearly doubled over the past decade
Humanitarian organizations are facing budget cuts from traditional donors while needs continue to grow
Contrary to common perceptions in wealthy regions, nearly two-thirds of refugees remain in neighboring countries rather than attempting to reach Europe or the United States
Sudan has surpassed Syria as the world's largest displacement crisis
The statistics represent cumulative figures from years of conflict, violence, and persecution

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint