A new UNHCR report reveals the first drop in total forced displacement in a decade. The finding raises hope but also underscores continuing long term needs for displaced people.
UNHCR in refugee affairs has again drawn attention to global trends: for the first time in a decade the world has recorded a decrease in the total number of forcibly displaced people. Such data are included in the annual Global Trends report, released on the agency’s official website.
The document examines figures on refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and stateless people, as well as the dynamics of people returning home.
Last year, the total number of such people stood at about 117.8 million, down by 5 million from the previous period, when it was about 123.2 million.
There was also a noted decline in both the number of refugees and the number of internally displaced persons.
The total number of refugees decreased by 3% and stood at 35.6 million. According to the UN, seven out of ten refugees originate from six countries: Afghanistan, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, and Venezuela.
By the end of 2025, 68.7 million people remained internally displaced within their own countries, down 7% from the end of 2024. Almost half of IDPs live in Sudan, Colombia, Syria, Yemen, and Afghanistan (46%).
The report also notes that Colombia, Germany, Turkey, Uganda, Iran, Chad and Pakistan hosted the largest numbers of refugees and people in need of international protection.
UNHCR links the decrease in the number of forcibly displaced to the rising number of returns of refugees to places of residence or to countries of origin. In 2025, 14.7 million people returned home, up 49% from 2024.
Most returned to countries and regions associated with long-running conflicts or crises. The report also highlights the strengthening impact of migration policy in host countries.
At the same time, the number of refugees who have remained outside their country for extended periods remains substantial and requires the close attention of the international community.
Key findings and regional highlights
The largest flows of refugees and people who need international protection are concentrated in countries facing protracted crises, creating a heavy burden on host states.
The report emphasizes the need for further efforts to protect and support refugees, as well as the development of long-term solutions to reduce prolonged forced displacement.
In the context of global changes, the decrease in forcibly displaced in 2025 does not mean a reduction in the international community’s responsibility – we must continue to act to support people who have lost their homes due to conflicts and crises.