Let’s talk with refugees, not about them

Over 100 million people around the world have been forced to flee their homes, and this number continues to grow every year, as does the discrimination they face in the search for homes, jobs, and stability. We believe that refugees have more to offer to society and economies than the perceived misconceptions of them being a burden. For us, all people deserve respect, dignity, and opportunities. By partnering with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, we hope to change the narrative around refugees.
For years, we've worked with refugees across many aspects of our business – like Skills for Employment and IKEA Social Entrepreneurship. This year, we’re aiming to become a platform from which refugees can be heard across the world and can take back their narrative. So, let’s hear the real narrative from refugees who just want to live in peace, and feel safe at home just like everyone else. Let’s learn the truth about refugees, from refugees.

Let’s change the way we think
A negative filter exists in many minds when it comes to refugees, it exists because of the way refugees are spoken about online and in the media. So, let’s learn the truth, let’s stop giving refugees labels that steal their narrative and instead help take back the narrative.
Three ways to take action
1. Stay in the know
You can help take back the narrative when you stop talking about refugees and start talking with refugees. Take a simple quiz created by the IKEA foundation in collaboration with Gapminder and get your facts right to help dispel the misinformation around refugees.
2. Stay Tuned
You can take meaningful action on a local scale by engaging with organisations and NGOs around you that focus on assisting refugees.
3. Spread Awareness
Always share verified facts from trusted sources to help counter the spread of negativity and misinformation by calling it out.
Social initiatives at IKEA
At IKEA, we’re committed to taking a stand for all refugees. See how we work with refugees across our business below: