Global Refugee Numbers Fall for First Time in a Decade

Around 70 per cent of refugees remain trapped in exile for years, with many living below the poverty line and relying heavily on humanitarian assistance.

Global forced displacement has fallen for the first time in ten years, according to the latest Global Trends Report released by the UN refugee agency, though the number of people uprooted by conflict and persecution remains at historically high levels. UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih said the report highlights both encouraging progress and continuing humanitarian challenges. Refugee numbers worldwide declined by 3 per cent during 2025, bringing the global total to 41.6 million.

The report also recorded significant movement among displaced populations. Around 5.4 million people fled violence and persecution by crossing international borders during the year, while 14.7 million displaced people returned to their homes or countries of origin. This included 4.4 million refugees and 10.3 million internally displaced people. Large-scale returns were recorded in countries including Afghanistan, Sudan and Syria. Refugee returns reached their second-highest level since international records began six decades ago, although the UN noted that many people returned under difficult circumstances and uncertain conditions.

New push aims to reduce long-term refugee dependence

While the overall refugee population declined, the report highlighted the ongoing challenge of prolonged displacement. Around 70 per cent of refugees remain trapped in exile for years, with many living below the poverty line and relying heavily on humanitarian assistance.

Salih used the report's launch to propose a new international initiative aimed at reducing long-term refugee dependence on aid. The goal is to cut by more than half the number of refugees living in protracted displacement and relying on humanitarian support over the next decade. The initiative focuses primarily on low- and middle-income countries, which host the majority of the world's refugee population.

According to the UNHCR, success will depend on expanding opportunities for voluntary return, increasing access to relocation programmes and humanitarian visas, and creating pathways that allow refugees to become financially self-sufficient. The agency wants more refugees to earn enough income to reach the national poverty line in the countries where they live rather than remaining dependent on aid.

Greater inclusion and resettlement needed

The proposal calls for stronger cooperation between governments, humanitarian organisations, development agencies, businesses and civil society groups. One of the key priorities involves integrating refugees into national education systems, healthcare services, financial institutions and labour markets. The UN says greater inclusion would allow refugees to contribute more effectively to local economies while improving their long-term prospects.

The report also points to a growing shortage of resettlement opportunities. During 2025, arrivals through resettlement and sponsorship programmes fell by more than half compared with the previous year, dropping to just 81,800 people.

Salih said voluntary return remains the most important long-term solution, particularly if major conflicts can be resolved and conditions allow people to return safely and with dignity. As the international community approaches the 75th anniversary of the Refugee Convention in 2026, the UNHCR is calling for renewed efforts to protect asylum rights while creating realistic opportunities for millions of displaced people to rebuild their lives and achieve greater independence.