World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2023: Date, History, Facts about Migrants

This day has been designated to honor the fortitude and bravery of these individuals and to deepen our comprehension of their plight and the difficult decisions many immigrants have had to make.

World Day of Migrants and Refugees is observed annually on September 26 or the last Sunday of September. It is a day designated annually by the United Nations to commemorate and honor people who have been compelled to flee their homes, people who have escaped conflict, encountered adversity, and, against all odds, forged their way to find greener pastures in faraway places.

The background of World Day of Migrants and Refugees

This day has been designated to honor the fortitude and bravery of these individuals and to deepen our comprehension of their plight and the difficult decisions many immigrants have had to make. On this day, activities are held to support immigrants and refugees and to establish opportunities for them.

Since 1914, the church has celebrated World Day of Migrants and Refugees annually. This day can be traced back to just a few months before the start of the First World War. After being moved by the cries of millions of Italians forced to migrate abroad, Pope Pius X urged everyone to unite in prayer for migrants. Benedict, who was succeeded only a few months later, was moved by Pope Pius’s sensitivity and took a number of practical actions. During this time, a letter titled “The pain and concerns” was sent to Italian Diocesan Ordinaries requesting the establishment of an annual day of awareness to spiritually and financially support the pastoral work of Italian immigrants.

In 2019, the global population of immigrants reached a staggering 272 million, which was 51 million more than in 2010. Many people left their native country for a variety of reasons, including the pursuit of a better education, the search for better and more lucrative employment opportunities, and flight from unjust prosecution or war.

Due to their limited resources, they encounter numerous obstacles upon their arrival in the foreign country they aspire to call home. They frequently lack access to pure water, electricity, warm shelter, and medical facilities.

Today is a day dedicated to expressing concern for those who encounter immigration-related challenges. It is also a day to recognize the journeys of our foreign brothers and sisters and shed light on their stories in any way possible.

5 essential facts about migrants and refugees

These are individuals outside their country of nationality who are unable to return due to either fear or persecution for their race, religion, political views, or social group.

Statistics indicate that more than 50 percent of refugees and migrants are adolescents or children under the age of 18.

A decree issued many years ago stipulates that individuals seeking refuge from persecution can do so in churches.

Approximately 80% of migrants are typically hosted by their neighboring countries, which are frequently impoverished themselves; only 16% of refugees are hosted in developed regions.

Due to the conflicts in Southwest Asia, millions of people departed their homelands; however, approximately six million refugees have returned over the past decade.