Global support for refugees remains steady despite aid cuts, political tensions: Survey

GENEVA

Public support for refugees' right to seek safety remains robust across the globe, even as geopolitical tensions intensify and humanitarian aid dwindles, according to a new Ipsos survey released Wednesday.

The survey, conducted in 29 countries, found that 67% of respondents still support offering refuge to those fleeing danger – a figure only slightly down from 2024. Support was particularly strong in Sweden, Argentina, the Netherlands, and Australia.

"This survey confirms the public's continued commitment to providing refuge, which is encouraging," said Trinh Tu, the managing director at Ipsos public affairs. "It’s also clear from our data that there is an urgent need to address the persistent underlying concerns among the public about asylum-seekers' motivations and integration."

While the majority continue to support refugee rights, skepticism remains high. The survey found that 62% believe asylum seekers are primarily seeking better economic opportunities rather than fleeing conflict or persecution. This has contributed to rising border control sentiment, with 49% supporting border closures to refugees.

At the same time, 62% agree that wealthier nations have a moral responsibility to support refugees financially. Publics in Indonesia, South Korea, and Türkiye emphasized the role international organizations should play – even as aid to institutions like the UN is slashed.

"There's a clear disconnect between compassion and action," said Dominique Hyde, the director of external relations at the UN refugee agency.

"The public still believes in the right to seek safety and wants wealthy nations to do more, but the economic backdrop and global political climate are eroding individual support," Hyde added.

Ipsos' findings came as 122 million people remain displaced worldwide.