The UNHRC reported that as of the end of September this year, 114 million people have been displaced. Credit: Tanasan Sungkaew via Shutterstock.

IKEA has unveiled new commitments at the United Nations High Commissioner For Refugees (UNHRC) Global Refugee Forum held in Geneva, Switzerland, today (18 December).

The renowned furniture retailer pledges to enhance the integration of refugees by focusing on meaningful employment, social inclusion, and advocacy for their rights.

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The commitments span various initiatives and partnerships, reflecting the company’s dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of displaced individuals.

Ingka Group, the largest IKEA retailer, is set to boost the employability of an additional 3,000 refugees and asylum seekers by the end of 2027.

This commitment follows the company’s successful realisation of its 2019 pledge to support 2,500 individuals by 2023 through its Skills for Employment programme.

Over the past three years, Ingka Group has assisted 2,935 asylum seekers and refugees, with 54% securing jobs either within or outside of IKEA.

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Notably, 332 forcibly displaced people have been directly hired by the company through its Displaced Talent programme since 2022.

IKEA Social Entrepreneurship’s collaboration for long-term jobs

IKEA Social Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with the Cisco Foundation and NESsT, is supporting an initiative aimed at creating 3,000 long-term jobs benefiting more than 5,000 refugees and migrants in Poland and Romania.

The project underscores the company’s commitment to fostering economic empowerment for displaced individuals. The emphasis is on generating employment opportunities that have a lasting positive impact on the lives of those affected by displacement.

Meanwhile, Inter IKEA Group is extending its partnership with the Jordan River Foundation, focusing on creating long-term employment for 400 female refugees and local artisans.

Together, they work on co-creating products for IKEA, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable partnerships that contribute to the economic well-being of displaced populations.

This initiative aligns with the broader goal of supporting women in refugee communities and integrating them into the workforce.

Global challenge and IKEA’s vision for 2030

The announcement comes at a critical time, with the UNHCR estimating that 114 million people worldwide have been forced to flee their homes by the end of September 2023.

Last year reportedly witnessed the most significant increase in the number of forcibly displaced people in history.

IKEA, echoing its belief in the principles of respect, dignity, and opportunities for all, aims to play a substantial role in creating a fair and equal society by 2030.