THE number of people who have fled their homes to escape war, violence and persecution has reached 114 million, according to the United Nations high commissioner for refugees.

Filippo Grandi said that the number was climbing because nations have failed to tackle the causes and combatants are refusing to comply with international law.

He condemned the UN security council, which is charged with maintaining international peace and security, for failing to use its voice to try to resolve numerous conflicts, including those in  Congo, Gaza, Myanmar, Sudan and Ukraine.