Faith Based Responses to the Global Displacement Crisis

As the international community observes the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80), we are prompted to reflect not only on eight decades of multilateral progress but also on the ongoing challenges that continue to influence our world. Among the most urgent is the global displacement crisis, which has reached historic heights.

According to the latest Global Trends Report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), more than 120 million people were forcibly displaced by the end of 2024 due to conflict, climate change, economic instability, and persecution.

This growing crisis requires bold, coordinated, and inclusive solutions. While states and multilateral agencies have a key role, faith based organizations have become vital partners. With deep community ties and the trust of displaced populations, these organizations often act as first responders, bridging critical gaps in protection, care, and advocacy.

This side event aims not only to amplify the voice and role of faith-based actors within the broader agenda of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), but also to call for deeper, more collaborative engagement from all sectors of the international community. Governments, UN agencies, civil society, private sector actors, and displaced persons must be meaningfully included in shaping solutions that uphold dignity, equity, and shared responsibility. In doing so, this gathering reflects the spirit of multilateralism the UN has promoted for 80 years and
the inclusive leadership it must continue to foster for the future.

Objective:

The event will convene UN Member States, UN agencies, faith leaders, and civil society to:
a) Elevate faith-based and community-driven responses to forced displacement.

b) Promote stronger partnerships between governments, multilateral agencies, and faith-
based actors.

c) Share best practices from key actors, including refugee-hosting nations.

Outcomes:
– New or renewed partnerships between UN agencies, FBOs, and Member States
– Momentum toward deeper engagement of faith actors in global processes, including
the 2026 Global Refugee Forum and implementation of the Global Compact on
Refugees
– Strengthened alignment between displacement response efforts and the 2030 Agenda
for Sustainable Development