Refugee crisis briefing
The civil war in Syria has been one of the largest drivers of the global refugee crisis, which has left 65 million people displaced. With neighboring countries no longer able to absorb uprooted Syrians after more than seven years of fighting, more than a million refugees have fled to Europe to seek safety and better lives. At the same time, the U.S. is slamming its doors on refugees.
See all
What is the source of the crisis?
Since civil war exploded inside Syria in 2011, millions of people have fled their homes, with more than 5 million refugees crossing borders to seek safety in other countries. Several rounds of peace talks have failed to stop the fighting.
The ongoing violence in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries in crisis has pushed over 1 million desperate people to seek safety and a new start in Europe. In the United States some lawmakers — prompted by unfounded security fears — have moved to block the arrival of the comparatively few Syrians and Iraqis who have been accepted by the U.S. for resettlement.
How is the IRC helping?
The IRC is the only international aid organization working on all fronts of the crisis.
In the Syria region: Syria, Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon: More than 2,000 IRC aid workers and local volunteers operating inside Syria and in three neighboring countries have reached over 4 million Syrians fleeing violence with emergency relief and long-term support. We're focusing on health care, protection of vulnerable women and children, education, and economic recovery and development.
In Afghanistan: The IRC has worked inside Afghanistan for nearly three decades and currently reaches over 4 million people in more than 4,000 communities, focusing on community-driven reconstruction projects and education. We also provide emergency relief to people who have been forced to flee their homes by violence.
In Europe: The IRC was one of the first aid organizations to assist the thousands of refugees arriving each day on the Greek island, Lesbos. IRC aid workers continue to work around the clock in Greece and in Serbia to provide essential services, including clean water and sanitation, to families living in terrible conditions. And we are helping new arrivals navigate the confusing transit process and understand their legal rights. In Germany, we are helping refugees integrate into their new communities. Learn more abour refugees in Europe.
In the United States: The IRC has 28 offices across the country that resettle refugees. We provide immediate aid to refugees, including food and shelter, as well as access to the tools of self-reliance: housing, job placement and employment skills, clothing, medical attention, education, English-language classes and community orientation. We're also calling for U.S. leaders to do more after the Trump administration put a travel ban in place and slashed refugee admissions to record lows. Learn more about refugees in America.
How can I help refugees?
Donate to the IRC's response to the refugee crisis
The work of the IRC is possible only through the generosity of caring people like you. Your gift helps the IRC respond immediately and effectively to protect vulnerable families in most desperate need. You can help us aid refugees fleeing to Europe from Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq and other countries in crisis by making a contribution in support of the IRC's emergency response.
More ways to help
How can I volunteer to help refugees? Can I donate clothing or other goods to refugees? Your questions about ways to get involved are answered in our FAQs.
How to help refugees in the United States
Learn more
Subscribe to our weekly podcast Displaced to learn about the impact of the refugee crisis and hear from leading humanitarians, policymakers and innovators working to provide meaningful aid.
- I want to become a dancer. My favorite singer is Justin Bieber. To go to one of his concerts would be my biggest dream come true. "
Nazia and Rolian bonded at a refugee camp in Greece over their love for dance. The two 16-year-old girls—one from Afghanistan, the other from Syria—practice Zumba moves to videos downloaded on Nazia’s mobile phone. - I want to work...on empowering women to speak up in our society where men are those who make decisions at home. I want women to be able to speak up without being afraid, say their opinions, make their own decisions."
Through the IRC's Vision not Victim program, Nour, a Syrian refugee living in Jordan, was able to envision her future as a lawyer.
