More than 60 countries integrate refugees and migrants into their health policies

This came in a new report issued by the organization today, Thursday, on the health of migrants and refugees. The report is based on data from 93 countries, forming the first global reference to track progress towards building comprehensive health systems that meet the needs of migrants.

The organization stated that the migration of people is a distinctive feature of our common history, as it stimulates cultural, social and economic developments across generations. Today, more than one billion people – more than one in eight people in the world – are refugees or migrants. But the organization warned that many refugees and migrants face obstacles to accessing health care services, increased risks of infectious and chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and unsafe living or working conditions.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the Organization, said: “Refugees and migrants are not just beneficiaries of care services, they are also health workers, caregivers and community leaders. Health systems will only be truly inclusive if they serve everyone.”

Dr. Tedros explained that the new report issued by the organization proves that the process of integrating refugees and migrants into society benefits entire societies and enhances preparedness capabilities to face health challenges in the future.

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