Global Displacement Crisis: Urgent Call for Solutions Beyond Borders

Filippo Grandi, head of the U.N. refugee agency, warns of worsening displacement in Lebanon and Sudan. He criticizes strict border measures and urges addressing root causes of displacement. Grandi stresses on the need for lawful asylum schemes and increased support for refugees in Sudan's civil war.

The head of the U.N. refugee agency, Filippo Grandi, has issued a stark warning about escalating displacement crises in Lebanon and Sudan, arguing that tightened border controls are neither effective nor lawful. Speaking to diplomats and ministers in Geneva at the UNHCR's annual meeting, Grandi revealed that an unprecedented 123 million people are currently displaced worldwide due to conflicts, persecution, poverty, and climate change.

Grandi urged leaders not to concentrate solely on border security but to address the underlying causes of displacement. 'We must seek to address the root causes of displacement and work toward solutions,' he stated, emphasizing collaboration and humility to tackle the refugee challenge effectively.

Highlighting the critical situations in Lebanon and Sudan, Grandi called for substantially increased support, particularly in Sudan, where funding remains low despite a surge in U.S. support. He warned that without sufficient resources, the ongoing spread of displacement will continue to grow in both scale and geographical reach.

(With inputs from agencies.)