According the UNHCR, the number of displaced people fleeing from war, conflict or persecution is the highest number since World War II.

The forced displacement of persons around the globe is currently at unprecedented levels. By the close of 2014 an estimated 59.5 million individuals were forcibly displaced around the globe as a result of persecution, conflict, violence and human rights violations. This is 8.3 million persons more than the previous year and the highest recorded annual increase in a single year.

Labor believes that Australia can do more to address this global humanitarian crisis. Labor believes in a compassionate approach to asylum seekers which enables refugees to progress their claims safely and securely.