The year 2024 was extraordinarily challenging. The number of people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution reached nearly 123 million by the end of June.
Thanks to your support and despite all the challenges, UNHCR has worked tirelessly to assist these people around the world.
Together, here are some of our achievements in 2024...
Afghanistan
Providing winter aid
Abdul Ghafoor and his family saw their house destroyed by the 2023 earthquake. In 2024, UNHCR funded the repair of his house and those of the inhabitants of Charbagh Firoza.
“After the earthquake, very large cracks appeared in our house. We had to stay in a tent for a month. But to survive the cold, and despite the risk of collapse, we were forced to return to our house. Today, I can't tell you how happy I am that it has been repaired.”
→ UNHCR’s mission in Afghanistan: “We’ll stay, even though the resources are limited” | UNHCR
Lebanon
Responding to emergencies
Since the crisis began in October 2024:
- 273,000 people received cash-assistance
- 258,000 emergency support kits distributed
- 124,000 people supported with shelter, home reconstruction, and access to safe drinking water
→ Ceasefire brings a glimpse of hope amid devastating humanitarian crises in Lebanon and Syria | UNHCR
Sudan
Standing by the forgotten, no matter the cost
- 800,000 people supported by our teams
- 6 new temporary camps built
- 5 existing camps renovated and expanded
→ “Civilians did not start this war, yet they pay the price for it.” | UNHCR
Ukraine
Supporting displaced people over the long term
During the winter of 2024/2025, here's what we've already achieved:
- 1,038,638 people assisted during the winter
- 353,873 blankets and warm clothing items distributed
- 643,910 financial aid distributions for heating and electricity
Education
Empowering the younger generation
Bernice, 25, is pursuing a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence at the University of Cagliari, Italy. Originally from the DRC, Bernice’s life was transformed by a DAFI programme scholarship, which enabled her to study Electrotechnics during her undergraduate years. She has a heartfelt message for UNHCR donors:
"Words will never be enough to express what you have done for me. You supported a young girl who had big dreams but no means to achieve them, and you turned those dreams into reality. Today, I can proudly say that I am a woman in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—fields largely dominated by men. I will be forever grateful to you."
The year 2025 will likely see this figure of 123 million forcibly displaced people rise even further. Yet UNHCR will continue, with unwavering determination, to support these individuals on their journey toward greater safety, self-reliance, and opportunity.
We remain steadfast in our belief that solutions exist: solutions to put an end to conflicts, but also solutions that enable refugees and other displaced people to contribute to the communities that host them.
Together, we will continue to make a difference.
→ UNHCR’s emergency response: “Success means bringing people to safety”