The number of displaced people worldwide is at an all-time high. 82 million people are either refugees or internally displaced (IDPs). Displacement caused by conflict, natural disasters and climate change is the largest humanitarian crisis since World War II.
In the long term, conflict and deprivation are the major causes of displacement, but not the only ones. Many displaced people do not qualify for refugee status under the 1951 Convention, as they lack a ‘persistent and serious threat to life’ resulting from persecution, violence or massive social or economic deprivation – but still need international protection.
Countries that resettle large numbers of refugees – such as the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand – need to take a more holistic approach that enables them to manage the risks, including reducing the pressure on their borders. A key step is to ensure that refugees are able to build a basic level of self-sufficiency in their host country. This reduces tensions and the temptation to engage in illegal activities, which can undermine public safety and security.
In addition, all countries should investigate and prosecute trafficking gangs that exploit refugees and migrants. They must put refugees and migrants’ safety above all else, and stop blaming them for their own economic or political problems. They must also combat all kinds of xenophobia, which drives tensions and can lead to violence – as seen in Calais and elsewhere. They must support integration by giving refugees a chance to enter their societies if they abide by rules, come in through the front door and are properly vetted.