Prepared by: [Mike Hansel], University Amnesty International Research Member
Date: [16th June 2025]
The global refugee crisis continues to escalate, with over 114 million people displaced worldwide due to conflict, persecution, and climate-related disasters (UNHCR, 2024). As one of the world’s most economically developed nations and a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, the United Kingdom has both a legal and moral obligation to play an active role in addressing the basic needs of refugees, including shelter.
This document examines how the UK government and civil society, including property owners, can support the housing of refugees worldwide and provides practical recommendations for policy and community-level engagement.
(Image Source: © Arni / UN Archives)
The UK’s Current Involvement in Refugee Housing
The UK has historically contributed through resettlement schemes such as the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme and the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme. Additionally, through funding to international organisations like UNHCR and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the UK supports temporary shelters and camp infrastructure globally.
However, with rising displacement numbers and stretched international resources, more direct and sustainable housing interventions are urgently needed.
Recommendations for the UK Government
1. Increase Funding for Global Refugee Housing Initiatives
The UK should expand its overseas aid allocation for shelter-related programmes in refugee-hosting countries such as Lebanon, Jordan, Bangladesh, and Uganda. Support could include modular housing systems, permanent settlement infrastructure, and cash-for-rent programmes.
2. Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships
Encourage collaboration between UK housing developers, charities, and NGOs to co-fund and construct refugee housing in high-need regions. UK firms with international reach can apply their expertise in design, sustainability, and rapid deployment.
Liverpool and Birmingham can play a pivotal role in strengthening public-private partnerships to support refugee housing by leveraging their strong networks of local businesses, housing associations, and civic institutions.
Both cities boast vibrant property and construction sectors that, with local authority collaboration, can be mobilised to co-develop affordable housing solutions tailored to refugee needs. By fostering partnerships between city councils, private landlords, real estate developers, and community-led organisations, Liverpool and Birmingham can create scalable housing initiatives that combine public funding with private sector efficiency. These collaborations can also support job training, community integration services, and social enterprise projects, creating a more sustainable and inclusive urban response to global displacement. Learn more about some of the UK forecasts for this sector, along with some low-carbon community projects for social enterprise.
3. Integrate Housing Support into Foreign Policy
Link housing aid to long-term stability and development strategies in conflict zones and fragile states. A safe, stable home is essential for education, healthcare, and eventual economic integration.
London and Scotland have unique capacities to influence how the UK integrates housing support into its broader foreign policy agenda. As the seat of the UK Government, London can advocate for increased international development funding specifically directed toward sustainable refugee housing in conflict-affected and climate-vulnerable regions.
By integrating housing priorities into diplomatic, trade, and aid strategies, the UK’s foreign policy can address displacement at its roots. Meanwhile, Scotland, with its devolved government and strong tradition of humanitarian leadership, can lead by example through partnerships with international NGOs and by supporting devolved international cooperation programmes that fund refugee housing abroad. Together, London and Scotland can develop a more compassionate and housing-inclusive approach to foreign policy that reflects the UK’s global responsibilities.
4. Support Decentralised Resettlement Within the UK
Expand community sponsorship schemes and work with local authorities to accommodate more refugees within the UK, especially in areas with available housing and declining populations.
Liverpool and Birmingham—two of the UK’s most diverse and historically welcoming cities—are well-positioned to lead in supporting decentralised refugee resettlement. With established multicultural communities, active civil society organisations, and local councils already experienced in housing support, these cities can provide essential infrastructure for the successful integration of developments in the North of the UK.
By allocating underused housing stock, investing in community-led support programmes, and encouraging partnerships between local authorities, universities, and property owners, both cities can scale up their capacity to welcome more displaced individuals. Their leadership would not only meet humanitarian needs but also enrich their urban fabric with new cultures, skills, and community engagement.
The Role of UK Property Owners
Individual property owners across the UK can also make significant contributions to refugee housing, both domestically and internationally. This section outlines practical ways they can help:
Open Homes to Refugees Locally – Through established initiatives like Homes for Ukraine and Refugees at Home, UK landlords and homeowners can offer short- or long-term accommodation to displaced individuals. Property owners are encouraged to register their available rooms or properties with these schemes.
Allocate Vacant Property for Humanitarian Use – Owners of unoccupied residential or commercial properties can work with charities to house asylum seekers or newly arrived refugees temporarily. Tax incentives or charitable recognition may be available.
Invest in Ethical Property Funds – Ethical or impact-focused property investment funds are emerging to develop housing solutions for refugees and low-income communities worldwide. UK property investors can align portfolios with social outcomes by supporting such ventures.
Resources of Interest: Ethical Property – Ethical Consumer – Ethical Liverpool Development – Ethical Property Foundation
Advocate and Educate – Landlords and homeowners have influential voices in local communities. By advocating for inclusive housing policies and reducing stigma around refugee tenants, they help foster a welcoming environment.
The UK has the resources, expertise, and ethical foundation to improve housing conditions for refugees around the world significantly. While government leadership is essential, private citizens and property owners also play a crucial role. From opening homes to funding overseas housing projects, collective action can uphold the dignity and rights of displaced people everywhere.
At the University Amnesty International, we urge our academic community, local councils, and national policymakers to champion housing as a human right, not only through words but through action. Learn more about UK Legal education and healthcare education with our dedicated resources.