Refugees are a symptom of collective failure – only working together will tackle the root causes | Filippo Grandi

On the eve of a major summit, the UN high commissioner for refugees shares his vision and calls for a new global mindset

At a time of multiple conflicts, deep geopolitical divisions and rising numbers of people forced to flee their homes, to proclaim that an international conference can find solutions for the world's refugees might seem to be stretching the definition of optimism.

According to our latest estimates, there are 36.4 million refugees worldwide, out of a total displaced population (including the internally displaced) of a staggering 114 million. This global refugee population has doubled within the past seven years, a reflection of the violence and human rights abuses that seem to be afflicting more and more countries.