Support for refugees erodes as funding gaps surge globally and in India

The latest figures from the UNHCR's global report reveal that the number of people displaced across the world had risen to 122.1 million as of April 2025, up from 120 million a year earlier

The World Refugee Day, on June 20, reminds us of the journey millions of people around the world have been forced to take. Entire communities are uprooted by war, violence, and persecution. The latest figures from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees’ (UNHCR’s) global report reveal that the number of people displaced worldwide had risen to 122.1 million as of April 2025, from 120 million a year earlier.  

 

No. of refugees and those granted asylum by India

 

India remains a longstanding haven for refugees. The largest groups of refugees and asylum-seekers in India come from Tibet and Sri Lanka, followed by the Rohingya from Myanmar who have found sanctuary since mid-20th century.

 

 

Gap between funding requirement and actual funding for UNHCR (as % of requirement) 

 

The financial outlook for supporting refugees is becoming increasingly uncertain. The funding gap for UNHCR has grown sharply over the past five years.