The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has called for increased international investment in durable solutions for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) across West and Central Africa. While refugee and IDP returns have increased in recent months, the region continues to face one of the world’s largest displacement crises, with nearly 20 million people either forcibly displaced or stateless as of April 2026.
According to UNHCR’s latest regional displacement report, the overall number of displaced people declined by 12 percent compared to the end of 2024. However, this reduction was largely driven by returns rather than a meaningful decrease in the conflicts, insecurity, and humanitarian challenges that continue to force people from their homes.
Internal displacement remains the dominant form of displacement in the region, accounting for more than 14 million people who remain displaced within their own countries. At the same time, the number of refugees and asylum seekers has continued to grow, reaching approximately 3.9 million people, representing a significant year-on-year increase.
A major concern highlighted in the report is the persistence of protracted displacement. More than half of all refugees and asylum seekers in the region have been living in displacement situations for extended periods, with many remaining in exile for over a decade. These long-term situations place increasing pressure on host communities, public services, and national support systems.
Women and children are disproportionately affected by displacement and represent the majority of refugees and asylum seekers. Hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals also have specific protection needs, including vulnerable children, women at risk, persons with disabilities, and individuals facing statelessness, which often limits access to basic rights and essential services.
Migration towards Europe continues despite overall declines in arrivals. Many individuals fleeing insecurity and instability continue to undertake dangerous journeys, facing risks such as human trafficking, exploitation, violence, detention, and limited access to asylum procedures along migration routes.
UNHCR emphasized the importance of investing in long-term solutions rather than relying solely on humanitarian assistance. During the first four months of 2026, tens of thousands of refugees voluntarily returned to their countries of origin, while millions of internally displaced persons have also returned home in recent years, particularly in countries such as Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Mali.
Despite these positive developments, sustainable reintegration remains challenging. Ongoing insecurity, weak infrastructure, limited public services, and protection concerns continue to hinder the successful return and reintegration of displaced populations. UNHCR stresses that investment in livelihoods, education, healthcare, governance, infrastructure, and social cohesion is necessary to ensure that returns remain voluntary, safe, and sustainable.
Several countries in the region, including Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Nigeria, and Niger, are expanding refugee access to national identification systems, healthcare, education, and social protection programs. These initiatives aim to reduce long-term dependence on humanitarian aid and promote greater self-reliance among displaced populations.
