The number of people forcibly displaced around the world declined for the first time in more than a decade during 2025, according to a new report released by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). While the decrease offers a positive sign, the agency warned that millions of people remain uprooted by conflict, violence, and persecution.
According to the report, 117.8 million people were living in displacement at the end of 2025, representing a reduction of 5.4 million people compared to the previous year. Despite the decline, the UN described the overall figure as unacceptably high and stressed the need for long term solutions to address the global displacement crisis.
The decrease was largely driven by a significant rise in the number of refugees and internally displaced persons returning to their home regions. In total, approximately 14.7 million people returned to their places of origin during 2025. This included 4.4 million refugees, marking one of the highest annual return rates recorded in the past six decades.
However, UN officials cautioned that many returns took place under difficult and unstable conditions. A large percentage of returning refugees went back to countries such as Afghanistan, Sudan, and Syria, where security concerns, damaged infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities continue to pose serious challenges.
The report also highlighted ongoing conflicts that continue to force people from their homes. New waves of displacement were recorded in several regions, including the Middle East, where millions have been affected by ongoing violence and instability.
UNHCR expressed concern over the growing number of refugees living in prolonged displacement situations. According to the agency, nearly 70 percent of refugees remain displaced for many years, often relying heavily on humanitarian assistance.
To address this challenge, the UN has launched a new initiative aimed at reducing long term displacement over the next decade. The plan focuses on expanding opportunities for voluntary return, refugee resettlement, humanitarian visas, and sustainable integration programs.
Officials emphasized that while the decline in displacement numbers is encouraging, lasting solutions require international cooperation, peacebuilding efforts, and stronger support for affected communities worldwide.
