In the wake of ongoing conflicts affecting many regions across the globe, the plight of refugees and asylum seekers has become an increasingly urgent humanitarian concern. From the war-ravaged towns and villages of Syria, Ukraine, and Gaza to the destroyed lives of Afghanistan, Yemen, and beyond, millions of individuals are forced to flee their homes in search of safety and shelter. By May 2023, more than 110 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide due to persecution, conflict, violence, and human rights violations (UNHCR Global Trends).
In Syria, a civil war that has raged for over a decade has left an estimated 6.7 million people internally displaced, with millions more seeking refuge in neighboring countries or faraway lands (IDMC). The conflict has created one of the largest humanitarian crises of our time.
Similarly, in Yemen, a protracted conflict fueled by regional power struggles has resulted in devastation and suffering. With airstrikes, ground battles, and a humanitarian crisis accentuated by famine and disease, an estimated 4.5 million people have been internally displaced, while countless others have fled the country in search of safety (ReliefWeb).
Meanwhile, in Afghanistan, decades of conflict and instability have forced millions to flee their homes, either internally or seeking refuge abroad. With the resurgence of Taliban control and ongoing international isolation, the situation remains precarious for many Afghans, with their future uncertain and their lives under constant threat.
Adding to the complexity of the world refugee situation, the war in Ukraine has further increased the global displacement of people. As Russia's invasion of Ukraine unfolds, millions of Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge both within the country and in neighboring nations. This conflict has reignited fears of displacement connected to Europe's darkest times, with people escaping violence in search of safety and security.
Bridging humanity: standing together for refugees
These conflicts are just a snapshot of the numerous crises unfolding around the world, each one affecting people and shattering communities. From Myanmar to South Sudan, from Libya to Venezuela, the stories of displacement and desperation are tragically similar, as families are torn apart and lives are broken by violence and persecution.
In the face of such immense suffering, the international community must prioritize the protection and assistance of refugees and asylum seekers. This means not only providing immediate humanitarian aid and shelter but also addressing the root causes of conflict and displacement through diplomacy, peace-building efforts, and support for sustainable development.
Moreover, it means ensuring that refugees and asylum seekers are treated with dignity and compassion, regardless of who they are and where they are coming from. This includes respecting their right to seek asylum, providing access to basic social, legal and economic support, and combating discrimination and xenophobia.
For Stikado, the increasing number of refugees around the world is not just a humanitarian challenge but a test of our shared humanity and commitment to defending human rights. As long as conflicts persist and people are forced to flee their homes, the plight of refugees and asylum seekers will remain a defining moral issue of our time, demanding collective action and solidarity from the global community.
Stikado’s commitment to refugees
Refugees are our neighbors from around the world who have been forced to flee their homes. They seek safety and asylum in other countries, often leaving behind everything they know and love in search of a chance for a better and peaceful life. They are ordinary people, just like us, who have shown extraordinary strength in the face of adversity. But let’s not forget that, despite the challenges they have encountered along the way, refugees bring with them diverse cultures, talents, and experiences that enrich our communities. Refugees deserve our warm welcome, friendship, and solidarity as they try to rebuild their lives in unfamiliar lands.
The ability of refugees and asylum seekers to thrive in their new environments depends on the reception they receive from host communities. Welcoming and inclusive societies can provide the necessary support for refugees to contribute positively to their new homes. Hostility and discrimination only increase the challenges faced by those seeking refuge and protection.
Recognizing the importance of supporting people on the move, the Stikado team has dedicated over five years to humanitarian and migration-related initiatives. With a focus on creating opportunities and ensuring dignified lives for refugees and asylum seekers, our team remains committed to building inclusive communities where everyone has the chance to realize their potential and build a better future.
