UNHCR Data

At UNHCR we work with data and statistics, which are helping us to understand important information to save, protect and improve the lives of refugees, other forcibly displaced and stateless people. Based on good data, we can make informed decisions around our work and better plan for future operations. Data also allows us to demonstrate accountability to beneficiaries, governments, partners and donors in a tangible and comparable way.

Our vision, strategic priorities and key actions are outlined in our Data Transformation Strategy.

The collection and use of refugee data are mandated by the 1951 Refugee Convention and by the Statute of the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees. The confidentiality of refugee data and related information is highly respected by UNHCR and our partners and the processing and protection of personal data are anchored in UNHCR’s Data Protection Policy. To learn more about the collection of refugee data read the Registration and Identity Management Guidelines.

UNHCR main data publications

Key topics in Global Trends:

Key trends and latest numbers of refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced and stateless people worldwide
Latest numbers of people who have returned to their countries or areas of origin

Key topics addressed in the Global Report:

Latest key results and achievements of UNHCR's work, including details about major refugee operations worldwide
Contributions from top donors and funding figures for programmes
Budget and expenditures

Key topics in Global Appeal:

UNHCR's financial requirements for the coming year
Priorities and budget activities for the next annual period
Global strategic priorities

Key topics in the Global Compact on Refugees Indicator Report:

Statistical data on progress towards GCR objectives to ease pressures on host countries, enhance refugee self-reliance, expand access to third-country solutions, and support conditions in countries of origin for return in safety and dignity
Biennial GCR indicator-based reporting on burden- and responsibility-sharing

Key topics in the Statistical Yearbook:

Statistical data on historical trends
Demographic characteristics of UNHCR's populations of concern
Methodological updates

Key topics in this report:

Statistical data on global displacement trends from January to June each year
Selected forecast on how displacement trends may look like in the year ahead

Platforms and tools

Data management systems and statistical databases help us and our partners to improve our work, optimize our resources and make informed evidence-based decisions. Find a selection of platforms and tools below:

Refugee Population Statistics Database

The Database provides statistics on global forced displacement, including about UNHCR's populations of concern from 1951 until today.

Resettlement Data Finder

The Resettlement Data Finder provides resettlement statistics, interactive graphs and maps on a monthly basis.

Global Focus

UNHCR's main operational reporting portal for donors and other key partners.

Microdata Library

The Microdata library provides access to microdata containing information at the individual level about refugees and other persons of concern to UNHCR.

Operational Data Portal

Inter-agency coordination portal showing operational information about selected current emergencies.

Handbooks and Toolkits

This page gathers all recent handbooks and toolkits issued by UNHCR. They provide guidance, practical tools and resources on key topics related to UNHCR's work worldwide.