Historical high: 123 million people on the run!

Historical high: 123 million people on the run!

There are currently over 123 million people on the run worldwide, a sad record UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) recently made public. The alarming number also includes 40 percent children and young people. But what are the reasons that drive people to flee? War, armed conflicts, climatic changes and growing economic inequality mean that more and more people are having to leave their homes.

The humanitarian disasters associated with forced migration demonstrate once again the urgency of addressing these issues. Diana Gonzalez Olivo, the state integration officer, emphasizes how important permanent contact points and suitable offers are for young migrants. Language courses, psychosocial support and accessibility to educational opportunities are central factors for successful integration.

Schools as places of integration

Schools play a key role in the integration process. They are not only educational institutions, but also pivotal points for social exchange. Every person, regardless of background, should have equal educational opportunities. This also became clear at the retreat of the State Working Group of Municipal Integration Officers (LAGIB) in Brandenburg an der Havel, which took place on June 18th and 19th.

The focus here was on the exchange about the challenges in integration work with the Neubürger e.V. association. The association works intensively to support refugees and promote cohesion between locals and newcomers. In cooperation with the “Christian Association of Young People” Brandenburg, the importance of democratic education is particularly emphasized. This education is considered a preventive measure against radicalization and conflicts.

The role of the international community

But there is also a global responsibility. The Welthungerhilfe Stresses that most refugees are accommodated within their own country or in neighboring countries, often in Asia and Africa. The industrialized countries must become aware of their shared responsibility for the causes of flight and not abandon the countries that take in refugees. Innovative approaches are needed to provide support to people beyond providing food and shelter. Psychosocial support, access to education and work, and legal advice are essential.

The UNHCR also plays a crucial role here. This advocates for the protection and rights of refugees, displaced persons and stateless people and works to minimize the negative effects of large population movements on nature. Loud UN refugee aid War and violence are often the main causes of flight. Many people are fleeing out of fear for their lives and the well-being of their loved ones.

In view of the increasing number of refugees and the challenges associated with it, the topic of integration remains essential and topical. Not only are political and social measures needed, but every individual can also make a contribution to promote understanding and cohesion in society.