Key facts
- A global Ipsos poll found that two-thirds of respondents support the idea of providing refuge to those fleeing war or persecution.
- The survey, conducted across 29 countries, showed this level of support is largely unchanged from the previous year.
- In the United States, 72% of respondents backed refugee protections.
- However, 61% of those surveyed also voiced doubts about the validity of some asylum claims.
- Younger respondents, particularly Gen Z, were more positive about refugees integrating into society compared to older generations.
A global Ipsos poll indicates that a majority of people continue to support the provision of refuge for those fleeing war or persecution, despite increasing restrictions by some governments. The survey of over 20,000 adults across 29 countries, conducted in collaboration with the U.N. refugee agency, found that two-thirds of respondents agreed that individuals in danger should have the option to seek refuge elsewhere. This figure remained largely consistent with the previous year's findings, with notable increases in support observed in countries like Japan and France.
Despite this general support, the poll also highlighted a significant tension: 61% of those surveyed expressed doubts about the validity of some asylum claims. This sentiment was often held by individuals who also supported protecting refugees, suggesting a complex public view on the issue. Matthew Saltmarsh, a spokesperson for the U.N. refugee agency, described the overall resilience of support for refuge and asylum as a positive sign amidst current global polarization.
In the United States, where refugee admissions were previously frozen by President Donald Trump, 72% of respondents backed refugee protections. The survey also noted generational differences, with younger people, particularly Gen Z, demonstrating more positive attitudes towards refugee integration than older demographics like Baby Boomers.