The latest Ipsos Global Survey on Global Attitudes to Refugees reveales paradoxical views among Indians. While 56 percent support the right to seek refuge from war and persecution, the support has decreased significantly from 70 percent in 2022.
At the same time, nearly six in ten Indians believe borders should be closed to refugees, citing concerns that foreigners may misuse refugee status for economic reasons or welfare benefits.
Yet, the same survey shows that 56 percent of Indians believe refugees contribute positively to India, boosting the economy and integrating relatively easily into society.
Global Refugee Crisis at Record Levels
The survey findings arrive at a critical moment. According to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), by the end of April 2025, 122 million individuals worldwide were forcibly displaced from their homes.
This figure includes 42.7 million refugees, of whom a striking 73 percent are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, placing significant strain on already limited resources.
India’s Balancing Act: Benevolence vs. Strain
Amit Adarkar, CEO of Ipsos India, acknowledged India’s dual reality:
“As the world’s most populous country and now the fourth-largest economy, India faces challenges of low per capita income and an expansive informal sector. Refugee inflows stretch welfare schemes, but India continues to support asylum seekers and victims of war both domestically and abroad.”
The survey also revealed that India ranks highest in benevolence towards refugees among 29 countries surveyed. Over the past 12 months:
- 20 percent of Indians helped refugees prepare for or secure jobs
- 20 percent contacted officials or signed petitions advocating for refugee rights
- 19 percent posted supportive messages on social media
- 19 percent even offered shelter in their homes
- 18 percent donated money or goods for refugee causes
Only 43 percent of Indians reported taking no action, the lowest inaction rate globally, compared with 71 percent worldwide. In contrast, countries like Japan (92 percent), South Korea (81 percent), and Hungary (81 percent) recorded minimal action in support of refugees.
Call for Greater Global Responsibility
Despite India’s relatively high engagement, both Indians and global citizens largely agree that wealthier nations must shoulder a greater financial responsibility.
Nearly six in ten Indians and global respondents believe rich countries should provide more support, not only within their own borders but also to countries hosting large refugee populations.
However, with funding cuts hitting refugee aid organizations, the pressure is mounting. Indians surveyed called for joint action from governments, NGOs, UN agencies, the World Bank, and donor nations to secure stable funding streams for displaced populations.
Trinh Tu, MD Ipsos Public Affairs UK, highlighted the importance of addressing public concerns: “This survey confirms ongoing compassion for refugees. Yet, persistent doubts about motivations and integration show the need for balanced narratives and constructive dialogue.”
Dominique Hyde, UNHCR Director of External Relations, warned of growing challenges:
“There’s a disconnect between compassion and action. Needs are higher than ever, but economic pressures and political climates are weakening support. Without unified efforts, the humanitarian system risks collapse.”
The Road Ahead
World Refugee Day 2025 underscores a stark reality: public compassion remains high, but skepticism and funding gaps are widening. For India, the Ipsos survey highlights both remarkable grassroots support for refugees and growing concerns about resource strain.
As displacement reaches record highs, the global community faces a pressing choice — build sustainable solutions together or allow humanitarian systems to falter under the weight of growing needs.
