Introduction

Behind the headlines

2020 will always be remembered as a year like no other, the year COVID-19 shut down the world. It did not take long before news about the virus dominated our lives and our thoughts. We all felt uncertain about the future, insecure, and vulnerable. During this crisis, many of us got a glimpse of what refugees experience every day.

Behind the headlines of the news, the refugee crisis continued in 2020. An unprecedented 79.5 million people around the world were forced from home by conflict, natural disasters, and persecution. This photo, taken at the border of Ethiopia and Sudan, reminds us of their situation. None of these people ever imagined they would be refugees. From one day to the next, their lives were shattered. A lifetime of investment, hard work, and family, all left behind.

During the crisis, we were all confronted with our own vulnerability and uncertainties. However, as ZOA, we witnessed many people still found the strength to look past their own difficulties. Our supporters continued to give generously, and our staff worked tirelessly. I am thankful that, even in this extraordinarily difficult year, we were able to continue to serve people in need on their path from relief to recovery.

Chris Lukkien Chief Executive Officer ZOA