elpais.com
Global Forced Displacement Reaches 123.2 Million
123.2 million people globally are forcibly displaced—one in 67—primarily due to war, violence, and persecution, creating the world's 12th largest population if unified, according to a new UNHCR report.
- What are the primary drivers of the global increase in forcibly displaced persons, and what are the immediate consequences?
- A total of 123.2 million people worldwide are forcibly displaced, equivalent to one in every 67 individuals. This population, if a single country, would be the world's 12th largest, with a significant youth component (37.1% under 18) and an even sex distribution. The main causes are war, violence, and persecution, according to UNHCR spokesperson Paula Barrachina.
- How do the geographic distribution and demographic characteristics of forcibly displaced populations challenge common perceptions about refugee migration patterns?
- Contrary to common assumptions, the majority (73%) of refugees reside in low- or middle-income countries, primarily in neighboring nations (67%), prioritizing proximity to their homes for potential return. This contradicts the perception of mass migration to Europe or wealthy nations. The high number of child refugees (40%) highlights their vulnerability to abuse, violence, and forced recruitment.
- What are the key long-term challenges and potential solutions in addressing the global refugee crisis, given the projected decrease in resettlement opportunities and the complex geopolitical landscape?
- The sharply rising number of displaced persons (a 6% increase in 2024) underscores the escalating global humanitarian crises, particularly in Sudan, which experienced the world's worst humanitarian crisis in 2024. The decrease in resettlement opportunities in 2025, projected by UNHCR due to factors such as the suspension of the US program, threatens the progress made in assisting displaced populations. The number of forcibly displaced people has nearly doubled in the last 10 years.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue primarily around the sheer number of displaced people, emphasizing the scale of the crisis as a key point. While this is important, it risks overshadowing the individual stories and nuances of their situations. The focus on the total number could lead the reader to perceive displaced persons as a monolithic group rather than individuals with unique needs and circumstances. Additionally, using phrases like "the country of the forcibly displaced" to quantify and visualize them as a single entity might unintentionally dehumanize their experiences.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral. However, the repeated emphasis on the scale of the crisis, using phrases like "1 in 67 people", "12th most populated country", and the repeated use of the term "crisis", could contribute to a sense of overwhelming helplessness rather than constructive action. While aiming to highlight the severity of the situation, this could unintentionally foster fatalism instead of inspiring engagement with solutions.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the overall number of displaced people and the challenges they face, but it lacks detailed information on the specific types of support or aid provided to these individuals or groups. While it mentions resettlement efforts, it doesn't delve into the specifics of how these programs operate or their successes/failures. It also omits discussion of the long-term psychological and social effects of displacement on individuals and communities. The article also lacks diverse voices and perspectives from displaced persons themselves, relying heavily on the words of an Acnur spokesperson. This omission limits the readers' ability to gain a full understanding of their experiences and needs.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by implying that displaced persons either want to return home or seek refuge in Europe. It states that most refugees remain in neighboring countries and do not travel to Western countries. While this is partially true, it ignores the complexities of individual situations. Some individuals may have family in Europe or specific circumstances that necessitate relocating further away from their origin. The narrative oversimplifies a multifaceted problem.
Gender Bias
The article mentions the equal distribution of displaced people by sex but lacks a deeper analysis of how gender impacts their experiences differently. For example, it briefly mentions the increased vulnerability of children but doesn't explore gender-specific challenges, such as the risks faced by women and girls in displacement camps, trafficking, or sexual violence. Although the article notes that 44% of stateless persons are children and 30% are women, it does not elaborate on this further.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the significant number of forcibly displaced people globally (123.2 million) due to conflict, violence, and persecution. This directly impacts the SDG 16 target of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, providing access to justice for all and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. The large-scale displacement undermines peace, justice, and the ability of institutions to function effectively in affected regions.