Pan American Development Foundation’s Post

Excited to share insights from the Global Refugee Forum 2023! We witnessed a groundbreaking moment as over 328 forcibly displaced and stateless persons, representing 8% of attendees, joined the conversation. Their participation isn't just a number—it's a testament to the power of inclusive dialogue in shaping humanitarian responses. The formation of the Coalition on Meaningful Refugee Participation and efforts to integrate displaced voices in policy-making are paving the way for a future where solutions are not just about refugees but also by them. Yet, as we celebrate these achievements, we're also reminded of the hurdles—visa issues, language barriers, and more—that we must overcome together. Looking ahead to the High-Level Officials Meeting in 2025, let's use the momentum from the GRF 2023 as a catalyst for change. Here's to breaking barriers, embracing diverse voices, and building a more inclusive humanitarian community. Read the full report https://lnkd.in/gUqU8uyi #GRF2023 #RefugeeParticipation #HumanitarianInnovation #InclusiveDialogue

Narratives are powerful. To enable refugee inclusion under the whole-of-society approach, refugees and, by extension, communities have to own their narratives. This way, we are deconstructing stereotypes, negative perceptions, and labels of refugees. To enable institutional and systemic change in addressing the issues refugees face through narrative change,refugee voices and refugee leadership, it requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves engaging with policymakers, educating the public, fostering collaborations between refugee communities, host communities, and relevant institutions, and advocating for inclusive policies that prioritize refugee rights and integration. 🎥@bortopratv

On Wednesday, May 8, 2024, we participated in a discussion alongside other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) operating within Dowa. The gathering, organized by the #CatholicommissionforJusticeandPeace (CCJP), was aimed at shedding light on the legislative landscape and the deficiencies within refugee rights advocacy, as unveiled by the organization's five-month study dubbed Umodzi. Mwayi Sandram, the head of programmes at CCJP, said during the session held in Mponela, that the project unearthed a myriad of issues, ranging from legal intricacies to reservations pertaining to the 1951 convention; human rights concerns; and refugee rights. His statement highlighted the need for concerted action, stating, "all of this shows that there is a lot of work to be done." Sandram further noted a surge in human rights issues perpetuated by the camp's congestion, and stressed the urgency for expanded partnerships between organizations and the government within the camp's confines. “There is a need for more organizations to partner with the Government to help the police and other organizations that are already working there. There are also gaps in terms of sanitation, education, livelihoods and other areas. "We know that a lot of organizations are doing similar projects, so as we design further projects, let us also remember our friends that are living in the camp. Hosting 53 000 refugees is not easy. The Government and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) support is not enough to cater for everyone.” #refugeerights #Dzaleka #Malawi #Catholiccommissionforjusticeandpeacee

Objectives of the 2024 World Refugee Day Commemoration: Raising awareness; Fostering solidarity and social cohesion; Mobilizing political will and resources; Showcasing successful initiatives; Advocating for policy integration; and Ensure alignment of refugee education policies with Agenda 2063, the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Global Compact on Refugees. #WithRefugees #WorldRefugeeDay #NeverMyChoice

🌍 Empowering Municipalities Across Europe to Lead on Refugee Integration 🌍 Municipalities across Europe are taking on the dual challenge of welcoming and integrating refugees, which requires both immediate and long-term strategies. As they lead the ‘sprint’ of refugee reception and the ‘marathon’ of integration, municipalities are increasingly focusing on socioeconomic inclusion. UNHCR’s latest brief highlights the crucial role of these local governments in addressing key areas such as funding, affordable housing, and strategic population distribution, all while ensuring that refugees and migrants are effectively integrated into the local labor force. A significant focus of the brief is on the potential for refugees to contribute to inclusive economies. Refugees and migrants can fill critical labor shortages, support local businesses, and revitalize declining areas. However, for this to succeed, municipalities need expert guidance to develop proposals that attract private sector investment. The rapid and extraordinary response from the private sector during the Ukrainian refugee crisis is a model that can be leveraged, but sustained success will require structured, long-term partnerships that facilitate investment in infrastructure and socioeconomic integration. To amplify these efforts, fostering direct connections between refugees and the private sector is essential. 🔗 Learn more by exploring the full brief here: https://lnkd.in/dyGPBnHK #PrivateSectorSolutions #RefugeeIntegration #IFCUNHCR #InclusiveEconomies #AffordableHousing #PublicPrivatePartnerships #MunicipalLeadership #Europe #UNHCR #IFC

How are you celebrating the contributions of immigrants and refugees in your workplace and community?

In the delivery plan (2024-2026) for the New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy, published on 5 July, outcome 4 focuses on communities in Scotland understanding integration interculturally and respecting the diversity and strengths that New Scots bring. Some of the shorter term outcomes identified are that New Scots have improved social connections within society and across communities, improved confidence in using English and that their cultures are respected, celebrated and thrive. It states that there are plans to invest in community initiatives which build on existing good practices and address key priorities identified through the community consultation and/or which support those groups whose needs have already been highlighted. https://lnkd.in/g-fEBMbZ

Refugee Assist proudly supports the Welcoming Refugees 2025 Initiative—a global movement dedicated to creating more inclusive, supportive communities for refugees around the world. This initiative focuses on fostering stronger partnerships between governments, nonprofits, and local organizations to ensure refugees receive the resources, rights, and respect they need to successfully resettle and thrive. A key part of this initiative is a letter to President Biden, urging the administration to prioritize refugee resettlement and increase the number of refugees the U.S. accepts by 2025. By signing this letter, we can collectively send a strong message that refugee rights are human rights, and that our country must continue to be a beacon of hope for those fleeing persecution and violence. We at Refugee Assist, encourage everyone to sign the letter and get involved. Whether through advocacy, donations, or volunteer efforts, your support helps create a world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. #RefugeeAssist #WelcomingRefugees2025 #RefugeeSupport #InclusiveCommunities #AIForGood #SignTheLetter https://lnkd.in/esDzxqdU

On World Refugee Day, we reflect on the plight of those who have been forcibly displaced from their homes. This is a solemn reminder of the ongoing global refugee crisis and the urgent need for compassion and action. This edition reminds us, we have a responsibility to amplify the voices of refugees and advocate for their rights. It is our duty to foster a culture of solidarity, empathy, and inclusion - one that recognizes the inherent dignity and resilience of every human being, regardless of their circumstances. supporting refugee communities, ensure their access to essential services, and create pathways for their meaningful integration. Through our collective efforts, we can build a world where no one is left behind. On this World Refugee Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to standing with the displaced and creating a more just, equitable, and welcoming global society. #WorldRefugeeDay #Solidarity #RefugeeSupport

UN Volunteers stand #WithRefugees to safeguard their rights and well-being. But how do they do that? By offering crucial support, fostering resilience, and providing essential services to help refugees rebuild their lives and integrate into new communities. Here are a few of the key 🔑 areas where UN Volunteers provide support to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency 👇 What can you do to support #refugees?