One million refugees and migrants have fled to Europe in 2015

As the number of people fleeing to Europe passes one million, Oxfam is calling on the international community to address what is a global crisis. The uncomfortable truth is that the conflicts and brutality fuelling refugee migration have grown in recent years to unprecedented levels. 

Natalia Alonso, Head of Oxfam's European Union office, said: "The real issue here is a global migration crisis that is not being adequately addressed. The international community's response must address both root causes and the needs of people caught up in the resulting migration - we need to support people in both the long and the short term. The countries most affected by this increase in refugees are outside Europe. The impact on Europe constitutes only a fraction of the crisis that has arisen from conflicts that have grown and spread across the Near and Middle East, and sub-Saharan Africa.

"The European Union needs to guarantee the safety of those who have fled conflict and political instability to seek refuge in Europe. Everyone has the right to protection and safety, and under international law we are also committed to providing that safety to refugees feeling conflict and political turmoil. Providing them with the chance to rebuild their lives is our way of making a huge difference."