Geneva: Protection for refugees has been enshrined in international law for more than seven decades, raising questions about the level of contemporary support for those fleeing conflict and persecution. The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, has unveiled new data indicating that public support for refugees remains robust despite a surge in fake news and hate speech about asylum seekers.According to United Nations, the survey conducted by UNHCR in collaboration with pollster Ipsos found that two in three people across 29 countries agree that individuals fleeing war or persecution should be allowed to seek refuge in another country. Dominique Hyde, UNHCR's Director of External Relations, noted that this support has remained stable over the years despite political tension, economic pressure, and a polarized debate.The survey also revealed a paradox in public opinion. While many agree on the right to seek asylum, a similar number believe that many asylum seekers do not genuinely need protection. Trinh Tu, Managing Di rector of Ipsos UK, explained that this reflects a tension between wanting to assist those in need and doubting the efficacy of existing asylum systems, border management, and integration processes.The data highlights varying levels of support across countries. In the UK, the lowest net migration contrasts with half the population believing immigration is excessive. Meanwhile, Germany and Sweden show strong backing for asylum seekers, whereas support has waned in Trkiye and Poland. Despite these challenges, Hyde emphasized the need for continued international support, citing her experiences visiting refugee camps like Busuma in Burundi, which struggles to provide adequate shelter and resources for Congolese refugees.The survey also underscored generational differences in attitudes toward refugees. Younger respondents, particularly Gen Z, exhibited more positive views on refugee integration compared to Baby Boomers. UNHCR noted that Gen Z was less inclined to support border closures or question refugees' m otivations, although concerns about integration and asylum authenticity persisted across age groups.The UNHCR-Ipsos survey revealed that support for refugees is highest in Sweden and the Netherlands, followed by Spain. Countries like Japan and France have shown increased support over the years. When addressing specific displacement situations, respondents preferred direct emergency assistance, diplomatic action, and temporary protection over resettlement, though the latter remains vital for vulnerable refugees.In 2025, conflicts and other crises continued to displace millions, exacerbating needs worldwide. The UNHCR facilitated the resettlement of over 37,000 refugees, primarily from Trkiye, Lebanon, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and Rwanda. However, the number of submissions for resettlement saw a substantial decline from the previous year.The findings highlight the need to uphold the Refugee Convention's promise and ensure that asylum systems are fair, efficient, and well-managed, a significant message as the Convention marks its 75th anniversary.
Thursday, July 16, 2026