According to figures released by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), a record number of people were forced to flee their homes last year, 40 percent of whom were children.
Conflicts in Gaza and Sudan have created desperate humanitarian crises; violence continues in Ukraine, Ethiopia, Yemen, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other parts of the world; there are also reports of mass persecution in Iran and the systematic oppression of women and girls in Afghanistan.
Many men, women and children fleeing war and human rights violations are forced to undertake dangerous journeys in search of safety. Most seek refuge in neighbouring countries. A small number make it to the UK, where they face hostile refugee policies because they are fleeing violence and oppression.
This World Refugee Day, we are calling for a fair new plan for refugees.
With a general election looming, it is more important than ever to champion refugee rights: too many men, women and children are trapped in the UK’s cruel and unjust asylum system.
A massive backlog of asylum applications has left thousands of people in limbo, separated from friends and family, banned from working, often waiting years for their asylum claims to be processed, and many becoming homeless. Some are living in inadequate temporary accommodation, cramped hotel rooms, or military barracks.
The current UK government claims that these brutal policies are what the British people want – indeed, a Together With Refugees poll found that 80% of Britons want a well-managed, fair and compassionate asylum system.
This is our chance to show politicians and the media that most people in Scotland want a better plan for refugees.
The fair starts here
Our CEO Sabir Zazai said: “For me, World Refugee Day is a reminder of the conflict I fled and the long and complicated journey from stranger to citizen. Today, I am proud to call Scotland home and I hope that others fleeing war and persecution will receive the same warm welcome and have the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety. When people are given the opportunity for work, to put down roots and play their role in their new communities, they will be making a valuable contribution and helping to build a better, more prosperous society for us all.”
“Sadly, the current system is not working well for refugees and communities and we desperately need a better system. By coming together to voice our support for a fair new system, we can make it clear to politicians of all parties that most people in Scotland – and across the UK – are tired of division and cruelty. We want a kinder, fairer and more effective asylum system. The louder our voice is, the harder it will be for the next UK Government to ignore.”
Every year on 20 June, people around the world come together to celebrate the strength, courage and resilience of people forced to flee their homes to escape conflict and persecution.
There are many ways to show your support this World Refugee Day.
What you can do
1. Make a statement on social media on Thursday, June 20th
Join people across the UK on World Refugee Day by sharing this photo on social media with your message of support and the hashtag #FairBegins Here If you’re not sure what to write, use these suggested wordings:
This #WorldRefugeeDay, I call for a fair new plan for refugees.
It’s time to reject hostility and division and come together to stand up for something better. #FairBeginsHere
2. Take part in the Scottish Refugee Festival
The Scotland-wide arts, culture and community festival runs until Sunday 23 June. The packed programme includes over 150 events, exhibitions and activities across the country. Find out what’s on offer.
3. Order “Aye Welcome Refugees” merchandise
Express your feelings by wearing a classic blue t-shirt. Choose a convenient tote bag in a variety of eye-catching colors. Or decorate your water bottle, laptop, and more with our attractive vinyl stickers. Visit our store and buy now.
4. Make regular donations to help refugees in Scotland
Setting up a monthly donation is one of the best ways to support our work. Donations provide a steady stream of income, enabling us to reach more people in need and continue to provide vital information, advice and practical support to refugees across Scotland.
Scottish Refugee Festival