Refugees
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Refugees/Refugee Camps:
Today, the number of people forced to flee from their homes in search of safer locations due to conflict, violence, natural disasters, poverty, etc. is the highest in recorded history. The latest data shows that approximately 110 million people (i.e. refugees) have been forcibly displaced worldwide. According to UN estimates, one-fifth of the world’s refugees, i.e., approximately 6.6 million people, live in refugee camps, of which there are about 500 all over the world. Some of the biggest camps are in Bangladesh, Uganda, Kenya, Jordan, Tanzania and Ethiopia.
Refugee camps are temporary facilities created to house and assist refugees. The camps are not intended to offer long-term solutions but they provide people with food, water, medical care and other vital services. According to UNHCR, on average, refugees stay between 10 and 15 years at a refugee camp but the duration can differ greatly depending on a number of variables, including the reason for displacement and the extent of conflict in the area.
Children/Youth in Refugee Camps:
Over half of the world’s refugees are children, who may spend their entire childhoods away from home, sometimes separated from their families. They may have witnessed or experienced violent acts and, in exile, are at risk of abuse, neglect, violence, exploitation, trafficking or military recruitment. Children are among the most vulnerable and weak members of society. Poverty, misery and challenging circumstances are prevalent throughout refugee camps.
