Five powerful films to watch this World Refugee Day
Five powerful films to watch this World Refugee Day
This year, UNHCR reports that more than 122 million people around the world have been forced to flee their homes due to war, violence, and persecution. While many arrive in unfamiliar places seeking protection, they also bring a wealth of knowledge and creativity — contributions that enrich the communities that welcome them.
World Refugee Day is a time to recognize and honor the strength and courage of people forced to flee their homes. Every refugee carries a unique story of pain, loss, and unimaginable strength. Through film, we spotlight refugee voices and perspectives, bringing attention to stories that often go untold.
The Swimmers
The Swimmers, based on the true story of UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Yusra Mardini, follows Yusra and her sister as they escape war-torn Syria and seek asylum in Europe. After a perilous journey across the Aegean Sea, they begin rebuilding their lives in Germany, where Yusra pursues her dream of competing in the Olympics.
Peace by Chocolate
Based on a true story, this film follows the Hadhad family, Syrian refugees who resettle in Canada and restart their chocolate business. Through community support and determination, they rebuild their lives and bring sweetness to their new home.
What’s happening in Syria now?
The extraordinary developments in Syria over the past year have deeply impacted the lives of millions of Syrians, both within the country and abroad. The fall of the former regime has renewed hope for many displaced Syrians longing to return. Since the end of November 2024, more than 1.4 million have been able to voluntarily return home. However, with 80% of housing in Syria either heavily damaged or destroyed, the needs far outweigh the very limited resources available.
Learn more about UNHCR’s work in Syria
City of Joy
City of Joy follows women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as they begin a powerful journey of healing after surviving extreme violence. At a center founded by Dr. Denis Mukwege, Christine Schuler-Deschryver, and Eve Ensler, they find strength through education, therapy, and community.
What’s happening in the Democratic Republic of the Congo now?
In 2024, ongoing violence between non-state armed groups and government forces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo forced 3.1 million people to flee their homes, making it one of the world’s largest internal displacement crises. The scale and frequency of displacement has placed immense pressure on already limited resources and further intensified humanitarian needs across the country.
Learn more about UNHCR’s work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
The Kite Runner
Based on the novel by UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Khaled Hosseini, the film follows Amir, a boy who flees Afghanistan with his father, becoming a refugee in the United States. Haunted by a betrayal in his youth, he returns years later to Taliban-ruled Kabul to make amends and rescue the son of his childhood friend. The film explores the emotional toll of displacement, the weight of guilt, and the search for redemption across borders.
What’s happening in Afghanistan now?
While active fighting has largely ceased in Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover in 2021, poverty and hunger are widespread within the country, infrastructure and services remain inadequate, and civil liberties, especially for women and girls, have been progressively and severely restricted.
Learn more about UNHCR’s work in Afghanistan
Rise
Based on the true story of four formerly stateless Nigerian-Greek brothers, Giannis, Thanasis, Alex, and Kostas Antetokounmpo, who rise to success in the NBA. Despite having no formal training, the brothers discover a natural talent for basketball and, with the help of a talent agent, pursue their dream of playing professionally.
What’s happening in Nigeria now?
By the end of 2024, Nigeria remained a key host country for refugees and asylum-seekers, most of whom lived within local communities. At the same time, ongoing violence in the north continued to drive internal displacement, forcing families from their homes and leaving many in urgent need of assistance and protection.
Learn more about UNHCR’s work in Nigeria
