Who We Are
Connectivity for Refugees is a multi-stakeholder initiative advancing the availability and affordability of connectivity for 20 million forcibly displaced people and their host communities by 2030. The initiative is founded by the UNHCR, ITU, GSMA, and the Government of Luxembourg
Connectivity is a lifeline for refugees and their hosts.
For those forced to flee, meaningful connectivity can bring access to life-saving information, online learning opportunities, new sources of income, leisure, and more.
But too many of the world’s most vulnerable are still unconnected and can’t take these benefits for granted.
Together we can ensure our world leaves no one behind.
Where We Work
Active in more than 15 countries today, we’re on track to advance connectivity across 35 major refugee-hosting countries by 2030.
Below is a snapshot of how we’re making it happen in select geographies
The Connectivity for Refugees initiative is advancing connectivity access and digital skills training to meet the needs of refugees and host communities.
The Connectivity for Refugees initiative is advancing connectivity access and basic digital literacy to meet the needs of refugees and hosts.
Connectivity for Refugees in Ethiopia supports the Government of Ethiopia and UNHCR to close the digital divide for refugees and host communities.
The Connectivity for Refugees initiative is advancing connectivity access and affordability, device ownership, and digital skills in refugee-hosting areas.
Connect With Us
You are invited to be a part of a global network working across sectors to expand connectivity for refugees and host communities.
Our Initiative in Numbers
15
Countries across Africa, Asia, and the Americas with active efforts to advance connectivity access.
750
K+
Forcibly displaced people and their hosts will have benefitted from improved availability, affordability, and / or reliability of internet services by Q2 2026.
15
+
Internet service providers, including mobile network operators and satellite operators, have collaborated with the initiative to expand connectivity access.
28
+
Shared facilities, such as schools and health centres, are equipped with communal devices and reliable internet will be available in refugee hosting areas.