Why most Dunkirk refugees remained in Europe

What happened to the refugees caught around Dunkirk?

Most remained displaced in Europe because the evacuation prioritized bringing the armed forces to Britain.

Most refugees caught in the collapse around Dunkirk did not reach Britain. The evacuation concentrated on recovering the British and Allied armed forces needed to continue the war. Civilian movement therefore received lower priority amid a rapidly deteriorating situation. Many refugees remained displaced elsewhere in Europe.