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The Human Story
Behind the Statistics
Behind all the statements and statistics about refugees, asylum seekers, the internally displaced and the stateless are real people with harrowing tales of suffering and loss, as well as hope and ambition. UNHCR believes we must provide a platform for their voices and - when it does not risk their safety - to give a face to the millions of people of concern. Our staff around the world gather these human stories every day so that people living in peace and comfort can understand why the forcibly displaced and stateless need compassion and care. The best way to understand the suffering of others is to hear their stories of hardship, courage, struggle and perseverance.
Telling the Human Story
Young Somali refugee born in exile looks forward to resettlement after a hard life
Eighteen-year-old orphan Hodan was born in a baking, dusty refugee camp in Ethiopia. Accepted for resettlement in the US, she looked forward to the challenge.
A new start in Mexico: leaving domestic violence behind
Rebecca endured years of violence from her husband in Nicaragua before fleeing the country and reaching Mexico, where she was granted refugee status.
Iraqi artist departs for new life in the United States
After fleeing to Syria from their native Iraq three years ago, artist Amer Ibrahim* and his family are starting a new life in the United States.
World Humanitarian Day: UNHCR colleagues reflect on losing colleagues, taking risks to serve the world's most vulnerable
With humanitarian workers around the world increasingly becoming a target for violence, colleagues and families of some who have died in the line of duty discuss both the gratitude and guilt of surviving - and the reasons to keep serving.
Pakistan: homesick for Swat Valley, but reluctant to take a chance on going back
As some displaced Pakistanis return to their homes, others are reluctant for fear of further upheaval. A man who has had to flee his Swat valley village three times tells why he's waiting for greater signs of peace before he'll go home.