According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the number of people forcibly displaced due to conflicts, violence, and persecution reached a record 122 million by 2024. This is 2 million more than the previous year and nearly double the figure from ten years ago, Khaama.com reports.
Afghanistan remains one of the three countries with the highest number of forcibly displaced persons — over 10.3 million people have been displaced due to prolonged conflicts, economic crisis, and natural disasters. Only Sudan (14 million) and Syria (13.5 million) have higher displacement numbers. Ukraine ranks fourth with 8.8 million displaced.
The agency’s report also highlights a 9% increase in the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs), now exceeding 73 million worldwide. These people have not left their countries but were forced to flee their homes.
Afghanistan has endured decades of conflict — from the Soviet invasion to civil war, the US military operation, and the rise of the Taliban. Millions of Afghans have sought refuge abroad, mainly in Iran, Pakistan, and Europe.
UNHCR notes that forced repatriation of Afghan refugees from Iran and Pakistan continues despite the country’s unstable situation. Thousands return daily amid shortages of housing, infrastructure, and access to basic services.
The international community is urged to address the root causes of mass displacement and provide support both to refugees and to host countries.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
June 13, 2025