Global Migration: Dignity & Rights
People have always been on the move. But today is different.
Violence and persecution have forced people to leave their homes in record numbers. Nearly 80 million people are in this situation. More and more people are facing homelessness because of disasters. Climate change continues to add new challenges and strain.
CWS has been focusing on protecting migrants and refugees since our founding in 1946. This plays out in three ways:
First, we work to address the root factors that compel people to leave home. We advocate for urgent responses to the climate crisis, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Our goal is that people can choose to migrate rather than be forced to leave out of desperation.
Second, we meet the needs of people once they are on the move. This is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic. We've joined allies from around the world to call on governments to protect migrants and refugees during the pandemic.
Third, we amplify the voices of people on the move. Their experiences are a guiding light in ensuring that our programs are effective.
An Oasis in the Desert
Can you imagine being 15 and being dropped off in Cairo, a city of 25 million people where you can’t speak the language, you don’t have shelter, you don’t have food, and you don’t know how to survive?
This isn’t a hypothetical question. This happens regularly, and with your help, we can be there to welcome our new neighbors when it does.
Latest Updates
Raul’s Silver Lining
Trigger Warning: This story mentions instances of sexual abuse, child abuse, kidnapping and human trafficking. For most people seeking asylum, the journey to a safe home requires an incredible amount of trust and hope. This is especially true for unaccompanied immigrant minors, whose age and lack of companionship make them more vulnerable in an already dangerous situation. For Raul,* trusting …
New Skills Bring New Opportunities
When refugees are forced to flee their countries, they have to leave behind both what used to be and what could have been. This is especially true for young refugees, who lose the opportunity to explore their interests, learn new skills and pursue their dreams. Young refugees, who often flee alone, instead have to focus on survival as they navigate …
Joseph Grows Alongside His Vegetables
When we give nature care and help it grow, we often end up growing with it. This philosophy can be seen at the vegetable farm at a refugee camp in Tanzania. In this vegetable garden, refugees learn about sustainable organic vegetable farming and combat food shortages in the camp. As the program participants grow with knowledge, the plants and vegetables …