Until Everyone Is Safe
On June 20, the international community marks World Refugee Day, an opportunity to recognize the importance of protecting people who have been forced to flee their homes because of conflict, persecution, violence, or human rights violations.
In 2026, the theme “Until Everyone Is Safe” reaffirms a fundamental principle: every person forced to leave their country should be able to find protection, safety, and dignity. Seventy-five years after the adoption of the 1951 Refugee Convention, this commitment remains as relevant as ever.
A Global Reality That Demands Attention
The needs are immense. By mid-2025, 117.3 million people worldwide had been forcibly displaced due to conflict, persecution, or other major crises.
A few key facts help illustrate the scale of the situation:
- 71% of refugees and other people in need of international protection are hosted by low- and middle-income countries.
- Three out of four refugees or displaced persons live in regions highly exposed to the impacts of climate change.
- By mid-2025, Sudan represented the world’s largest displacement crisis, with 13.4 million refugees, asylum-seekers, and internally displaced persons.
Behind these statistics are families, children, women, and men seeking nothing more than safety and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
A Commitment Aligned with the SNJM Mission
For many years, the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) have supported migrants and refugees through various initiatives, including family sponsorship, accompaniment, advocacy, awareness-raising, and the defense of human rights.
In 2017, the Congregation adopted a corporate stand that remains highly relevant today:
“We, the members of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, guided by our faith and charism, collaborate with migrants and refugees to promote respect for their rights. We call upon all nations, particularly those where SNJM are present, to strengthen the implementation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for all migrants and refugees throughout the world.”
Keeping Hope Alive
This day is also an opportunity to thank all those who welcome, accompany, defend, and support migrants and refugees.
Together, we can help build more inclusive and compassionate communities where every person has the opportunity to live in safety, respect, and dignity.