Today, we are committing to standing #WithRefugees.
By the end of 2016, more than 65.6 million people had been displaced by conflict or fled human rights violations—22.5 million were refugees, and over half of them children. As the global refugee crisis continues, now is the time to demonstrate solidarity and act on behalf of those who are forced to flee their homes. The #WithRefugees campaign, launched on World Refugee Day in June 2016 by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), signals global public support for refugees and urges world leaders to act with shared responsibility.
Today, the Skoll Foundation is signing onto the #WithRefugees Coalition, joining over 200 foundations, social entrepreneurs, universities, NGOs, faith-based organizations, and UN agencies. It’s clear that innovative collaborations between diverse institutions, organizations, and individuals are critical to address issues facing refugees and to ensure better access to health, education, and livelihoods. As leaders prepare to come together in 2018 to pass a global compact to strengthen the international response to large-scale movements, we must push for action.
Organizations within the Skoll Awardee portfolio are making strides of their own. Take, for example, Kiva, which supports displaced individuals through long-term sustainable solutions like access to financial services and jobs, as well as support and assistance of host communities. Or Independent Diplomat, which provides diplomatic advice and strategic support to the Network for Refugee Voices.
So what can you do? Make your voice heard by signing the #WithRefugees Petition, which asks leaders to ensure that:
Image by Russell Watkins/DFID
