Following the escalation of Russia’s war against Ukraine with numerous new missile strikes, the head of the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, expects more displaced persons. If the devastation leaves people without shelter, heating and facilities, the number of refugees seeking refuge elsewhere will increase.
But with international support, Ukraine is better prepared today than it was at the start of the war to receive compatriots displaced in parts of the country less affected by the war, Grandi said. The escalation therefore does not necessarily mean a new flow of refugees in neighboring countries.
Up to seven million displaced persons
According to Grandi, six to seven million people are currently displaced in Ukraine because houses and apartments in their own cities and towns are not habitable. About four million people from Ukraine have applied for protection status in neighboring countries and Europe.
In general, Grandi expressed deep concern that the number of refugees and displaced persons would rise sharply. At the end of 2021 it was higher than ever before: almost 90 million people worldwide, with the Russian war already more than 100 million. There are simply no solutions to crises, Grandi said. He denounced the failure of the World Security Council, which is responsible for political solutions. “If this multipolar world continues to be so hostile, aggressive and nationalistic, I have no doubt that this number will increase significantly,” said the head of the UN refugee agency.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
