Refugees and forced displacement

War and conflict, climate and natural disasters as well as economic decline often leaves many vulnerable people and families with no choice but to uproot from their homes, belongings, families and livelihoods, and flee in a desperate bid for survival or for the chance of a better life.

Our Commitment to Refugees and Forcibly Displaced People

Islamic Relief believes that all those seeking refuge from war, persecution, discrimination, and climate change disasters or hazards have the right to seek asylum. We call on governments to recognise and uphold their shared international obligations to protect asylum seekers, refugees, stateless people and IDPs. It is essential that:

1. Global funding for refugee protection and basic needs is increased, with states, particularly wealthy countries, providing adequate funding for refugee emergencies and paying their fair share
2. Refugees receive adequate legal protection, and access to necessities such as shelter, food, water, sanitation, and medical care. Protection responses should be gender responsive particularly for women, children and older people 
3. Governments around the world enact legislation upholding refugee rights and enabling refugees to access services and employment
4. States commit to resettling larger numbers of refugees equitably, ensuring all refugees are seen as equal to others

Our Work On the Ground

Since 1984, Islamic Relief has been working in over 40 countries to ensure that the needs of refugees and other forcibly displaced people are met. In the aftermath of conflict and disasters, we have been there long after our emergency response and development work, helping to rebuild lives and livelihoods.