Businesses Face a New Challenge: Helping Refugees

Aren't businesses already tackling big issues like climate change? Yes, but there's another challenge brewing, says a leadership expert and UNICEF vice president. Michael Hastings thinks businesses should turn their attention to the growing number of refugees and asylum seekers. Over 120 million people have left their homes, seeking refuge or asylum in other places. This isn't just a problem for low- and middle-income countries, which host 75% of the world's refugees. It's a global issue. Hastings asks business leaders to consider how they can help. Education, jobs, legal services, housing—these are all areas where businesses can make a difference. They've shown they can take on big challenges before, like reducing carbon emissions. Now, it's time to step up and help refugees too. Most refugees come from just five countries: Afghanistan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, and Venezuela. They're leaving because of conflict, violence, or disasters. Hastings urges leaders to look back at the source of the problem and invest in peace. It's not just a European or North American issue. It's a global problem. Hastings, who also serves in the U. K. 's House of Lords, thinks governments need to do their part too. They should find out where migrants are coming from and why. It's about investing in people's futures and making peace. Businesses can't just sit back. They need to be leaders, and that means serving others. It means being vulnerable and empowering others to rise. It's a big challenge, but it's one businesses can tackle.