Each year, millions of people are forced to leave their homes in search for safety and a better life. Some become refugees, others are migrants seeking work or education opportunities. Many die trying to reach their destinations. World leaders should put people’s lives first, stopping the deadly smuggling of people on dingy boats, and investigating and prosecuting those who profit from people trafficking.
Refugees need a safe place to live that protects their human rights, allows them to become productive members of society, and gives their children the best chance to thrive. Governments should invest in comprehensive policies for hosting refugees that respect their legal status, including rights to freedom of movement and employment. They should fully meet funding appeals for refugee response, as well as supporting host countries in achieving economic development.
Countries of origin must stop using refugees as bargaining chips in international politics and cease triggering new displacement with their unsustainable conflict and instability. They should also provide the means for refugees to return voluntarily, if that is what they want.
In the meantime, governments should promote the integration of refugees into their communities to alleviate suffering, and foster a culture of acceptance that is based on the value of diversity. They should combat all forms of xenophobia and discrimination against refugees and migrants. And they should support a global network of cooperation on conflict and fragility that focuses on people’s right to protection and security rather than national ownership.