Why we need maps

Aug 9, 2023

- Tom Albinson

The 2023 Map of the Refugee Highway

Among other things, maps tell us where we are and where we are going.

The Map of the Refugee Highway

The Map of the Refugee Highway gives us perspective concerning the state of the world and the desperate need for communities of Christ followers to engage it as people of hope, healing, and peace.

The Map of the Refugee Highway was first created for the 2001 Global Consultation on the Refugee Highway held in Izmir, Turkey. I helped design the original map and have been creating updated Maps every year since then.

The Map serves as an eye grabbing advocacy tool that educates and invites people to consider current global refugee realities along with biblical perspective. It's a great tool for church groups and Sunday School classes to unpack together and attractive enough to hang on a wall as a conversation stater and as a reminder to pray for the uprooted women, children, and men in the world. It prints at up to 36" x 27".

Download a Companion Guide too!

We also offer a companion guide designed to help facilitate group discussion around the Map. I encourage you to grab one when you get your map. Just click on the map above to get yours. 

Frequently Asked Questions?

While you're getting a Map, I encourage you to also scroll down the page of the IAFR online Toolbox to the "Important Perspectives" section and download "Refugee Realities FAQ".

As the name implies, the resource answers questions like,

  • How many forcibly displaced people are in the world?

  • Did the number of forcibly displaced people increase or decrease between 2022 and 2023?

  • What countries are producing the most refugees?

  • What countries host the largest numbers of refugees?

  • ...and more.

I hope you will download a copy and make sure you are in-the-know when it comes to current realities concerning refugees and asylum seekers in the world.

You will notice that the IAFR online Toolbox offers many more free resources to help you learn about refugees and other forcibly displaced people. Our hope is that they help you get informed and equip you to advocate on behalf of our displaced friends.

*** SAVE THE DATE ***

Invitation banner to Strengthening Hope - an IAFR Fall Fundraiser

Tickets go on sale on August 15th!

I hope you will join us for an evening of inspiration and action to help refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced people in the world today!