Refugees and Migrants Summit 2016

Around the world, more than 50 million children have been forced to flee their homes because of war, poverty or persecution.

 More than 50 million children have been forced to flee their homes because of war, poverty or persecution.

Despite this and agreements by governments that “something” must be done, our current system is not working. We are failing the world’s most vulnerable children; kids simply deserve much, much better.

On Sept. 19, 2016 leaders from around the world will meet to discuss the plight of refugees and migrants at the headquarters of the United Nations in New York.

We are failing the world’s most vulnerable children; kids simply deserve much, much better.

While we applaud the intent of this meeting, talk is cheap. Durable solutions are what’s needed.

For almost six years, Syrian children have suffered because of political inaction. Leaders around the world must commit to prioritising basic healthcare, psychosocial support and education for refugee children languishing in refugee camps and temporary settlements. Until that happens, child labour, early marriage, trafficking and other forms of exploitation and violence will continue to flourish. Children will continue to be the victims of adult wars.

The number of people forced from their homes is the highest it’s ever been. According to United Nations Refugee Agency, just under one per cent of the Earth's population is either an asylum-seeker, internally displaced person or refugee. It is neither fair nor realistic for a small handful of countries to continue shouldering this burden alone. For instance, in Lebanon, Syrian refugees now make up more than a quarter of the population.

The number of people forced from their homes is the highest it’s ever been. 

Leaders at the Summit must commit to tangible solutions to address internal displacement, including addressing the root causes. We need to prevent families falling victim to situations where they have no other choice but to flee. Further, we call on Governments honour their pledges for humanitarian financing and increase their refugee quotas as a matter of urgency.

What can you do?

Sign our petition https://www.worldvision.ie/kidsdeservebetter

     Tell your leaders to make real promises and follow through.

If there are refugees in your community, welcome them. Take time to teach   them about your country.

• Share our VISION: Be a part of our ongoing campaigns to raise awareness for children caught up in conflict and/or poverty by sharing this message with the world. Use Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Google+ and Pinterest to spread the word. Raise your voice and let others know how important it is to invest in the lives of children.