IKEA and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) have forged a new partnered initiative ‘Together for all Refugees’ with the shared goal to break down biases, prejudices and misconceptions around refugees.
‘Together for all Refugees’ shares the voices and perspectives of refugees to educate on the hardships they face, while highlighting the value they add to society, to help break down biases and misconceptions and promote empathy.
The initiative also highlights ways to take everyday actions to support refugees, such as staying informed, questioning prejudices, and making contributions to support organisations like UNHCR.
The campaign by IKEA also aims to raise $29 million in funds globally to provide support to those fleeing conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecutions. IKEA Australia customers can donate online via the IKEA website and at the checkout in IKEA stores.
IKEA Australia Skills for Employment program leader, Harriet Pope said, “At IKEA, we think that all of us should have the right to a better life – no matter who we are or where we come from. We are committed to doing our part to change the narrative around refugees by highlighting the value they bring to businesses, host communities and society at large.
“We encourage all Australians to do their part to support refugees – whether that be through providing a much-needed donation or simply educating themselves to gain empathy through understanding.”
UNHCR Australia deputy national director, Trudi Mitchell said, “The number of people displaced around the world is growing by the day. No one chooses to be a refugee. Each person has their own unique story of displacement, but there are many important stories that we often don’t hear about in the media.
“It’s important to know that UNCHR stays and delivers where it’s needed, regardless of whether a crisis is in the international spotlight. That’s because all refugees deserve empathy, understanding and attention.”