In the time it took you to read this sentence, three people were forced to abandon everything and flee their homes in search of safety. Today, war, violence, and persecution is driving more people from their homes than ever before. There are 79.5 million forcibly displaced people worldwide. And tens of thousands of people are fleeing for their lives every day.
The COVID-19 pandemic has only made things worse. While UNHCR strives to protect refugees amid the pandemic and ensure their inclusion in national responses, thousands of refugee and displaced families have been forced into extreme poverty as a result of lockdowns and economic downturn. With winter at the door, vulnerable families need our help more than ever.
“It’s difficult to ask for help. When your child is sick and you can’t afford medicine, or when a day passes by where your kids tell you that they’re hungry, but you don’t have enough money to cook for them or give them anything to eat. This is very difficult. I can endure it, but my children can’t…”
Noura, Syrian refugee mother living in Lebanon.
We are working around the clock to extend our lifesaving aid to the millions of people around the globe who have nowhere else to turn.