Afghanistan Peace Campaign
Over 10 million Afghans are displaced, UNHCR reports, as global forced migration reaches 122 million due to conflict and persecution.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced that the number of people forcibly displaced by war, violence, and persecution worldwide has surpassed 122 million. The figure, released on Thursday in the agency’s annual report, marks a sharp increase of 2 million compared to the previous year and has nearly doubled over the past decade.
According to the report, over 10 million Afghans have been forcibly displaced, making Afghanistan one of the top three countries contributing to the global refugee and internally displaced population. The situation in Afghanistan remains dire due to a mix of long-standing conflict, economic instability, and recurring natural disasters such as drought.
Sudan currently accounts for the highest number of displaced people globally, with more than 14 million individuals affected. Syria follows with 13.5 million, Afghanistan with 10.3 million, and Ukraine with around 8.8 million, reflecting the ongoing toll of protracted crises and wars on civilian populations.
Afghanistan has faced more than forty years of war, from the Soviet invasion to civil war, U.S. intervention, and the Taliban’s return. These conflicts have forced millions to flee, mostly to Iran, Pakistan, and parts of Europe.
The UNHCR warns that recent forced repatriations of Afghan migrants from Iran and Pakistan are occurring under unsafe conditions. Thousands are being returned daily despite political instability and lack of infrastructure to support their reintegration.
With limited access to basic services, housing, and employment, returning Afghans face extreme vulnerability. The international community is urged to address the root causes of displacement and provide adequate support to both displaced populations and host countries.