People fleeing war, violence, conflict, or persecution have always been at the heart of refugee crises. Displaced families are forced to leave their homes with little more than the clothes on their backs and often encounter insurmountable barriers in their quest for safety and a new life. Every day, families around the world face traumatic experiences, including treacherous migration routes, inhumane detention centers, and harmful public policies that shut out vulnerable displaced people.
Displacement on such a massive scale puts tremendous strains on host communities and countries, and exacerbates political tensions within and between states. In addition, it makes it harder to address the root causes of the crisis that triggered displacement. In this context, it’s crucial to rethink how we support refugees in their new home countries.
The way we respond to large numbers of displaced people is critical to their wellbeing, and in determining whether conflict or peace is possible. Governments must investigate and prosecute trafficking gangs that exploit migrants and put people’s lives in danger. And they must combat xenophobia and all forms of discrimination, which feed into people’s fear of others and can lead to violence. Moreover, governments must ensure that displaced people have freedom of movement and access to education. They should also make sure that people can work and start businesses. Such measures will reduce tensions and improve economies, as well as increase the chance of a peaceful return to their country of origin.