Illinois stands as one of the leading states in the United States that opens its doors to refugees from diverse corners of the world. Data from The Refugee Processing Center reveals that in August 2023, Illinois received 283 refugees, securing its place as the fourth most popular destination for refugees nationwide. But who are these refugees, and why are they compelled to leave their home countries?
Burma (Myanmar)
Burma, also known as Myanmar, has emerged as the primary source of refugees resettled in Illinois since October 2022. An astounding 484 refugees from Burma found their new home in Illinois during this period, constituting 15% of all refugees in the state. Burma has grappled with a prolonged military dictatorship, ethnic strife, human rights violations, and political oppression.
In February 2021, a military coup unseated the elected government, sparking widespread protests and civil disobedience. Since then, the security forces have tragically claimed the lives of over 1,000 civilians and arrested more than 7,000. Consequently, many Burmese individuals have sought refuge in neighboring countries like Thailand, Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, or pursued resettlement in third countries, including the United States.
Syria
Syria ranks as the second-largest contributor of refugees in Illinois, with 377 arrivals since October 2022, accounting for 12% of the state’s refugee population. Syria has been gripped by a harrowing civil war since 2011 when a popular uprising against President Bashar al-Assad met violent crackdowns. This conflict drew in regional and international actors, giving rise to a complex humanitarian crisis.
Over half of the Syrian population has been displaced, either internally or across international borders. Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt have hosted the majority of the 6.8 million Syrian refugees. The United States has welcomed over 21,000 Syrian refugees since 2015, though the numbers declined significantly under the Trump administration.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan emerges as the third-largest source country for refugees in Illinois, with 276 arrivals since October 2022, making up 9% of the state’s refugee population. Afghanistan has grappled with decades of conflict, violence, poverty, and instability. While the U.S.-led invasion in 2001 initially ousted the Taliban regime, lasting peace and security remained elusive.
The Taliban insurgency persisted, challenging the Afghan government and its international allies, while other groups like ISIS also emerged. In August 2021, the Taliban took control of Kabul and declared the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, prompting a mass exodus of Afghans who feared persecution and oppression.
Over 5.7 million Afghans sought refuge, primarily in Pakistan and Iran. The United States pledged to resettle up to 65,000 Afghan allies who had worked with the U.S. military or embassy by the end of September 2021.
Other Countries
Other nations have also significantly contributed to the refugee population in Illinois, including Congo (268), Venezuela (163), Sudan (136), Ukraine (128), Iran (114), Iraq (106), and Guatemala (101). These countries grapple with diverse challenges such as civil conflicts, political crises, economic collapse, human rights abuses, and environmental disasters, compelling their citizens to seek safety and protection elsewhere.
Conclusion
Illinois, renowned for its diversity and welcoming spirit, continues to embrace refugees from various corners of the globe. These refugees bring with them their rich cultures, languages, skills, and experiences, enriching their new communities. Nevertheless, they also face myriad challenges, including language barriers, cultural differences, discrimination, trauma, and integration difficulties. Thus, it remains essential to provide them with the necessary support and assistance to help them rebuild their lives and contribute to their newfound society.