Archive for category: Refugees and Displaced Persons

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Empowering Refugees in Kenya Amid Poverty

Empowering Refugees in KenyaKenya has launched several groundbreaking initiatives to empower refugees in Kenya and reduce long-term poverty and dependency. As of 2025, according to the Operational Data Portal, the total number of refugees and asylum-seekers in Kenya is 854,876, with the majority coming from Somalia (54%).

According to the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, economic constraints, bureaucracy, little refugee engagement and little infrastructure hinder the improvement of empowering refugees in Kenya. However, despite struggles, initiatives have continued to progress.

Transforming Camps Into Municipalities

In March 2025, according to the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, President William Ruto unveiled the ambitious “Shirika Plan.” This signals a paradigm shift in empowering refugees in Kenya. Inspired by the Swahili word for “cooperation,” this 11-year initiative aims to integrate refugee camps into formal municipalities, notably Kakuma and Dadaab.

With more than 830,000 refugees across Kakuma, Dadaab and urban zones, the plan’s initiative marks a historic step toward sustainable, development-led inclusion. According to the Ministry of Interior and the National Administration, some of the key components include:

  • Ensuring refugees access national services such as education, health care and financial systems alongside Kenyans.
  • Issuing the Kenya Education Management Information System school registration and the Social Health Insurance Fund enrollment.
  • Streamlined service delivery under the Turkana and Garissa county administrations.
  • A projected budget of around $943 million, overseen by a multi-agency steering committee.

Microloans for Refugees and Hosts

In February of 2024, Equity Bank, with backing from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), launched a $20 million risk-sharing facility. According to Equity Group Holdings, this is aimed at expanding unsecured microloans to refugees and host-community entrepreneurs across 14 counties, all empowering refugees in Kenya. This marks the world’s first such dedicated facility for forcibly displaced individuals.

Some of the major highlights of the facility, according to Equity Group Holdings, include:

  • Covering 50% of the risk exposure.
  • Financial literacy and agribusiness capacity-building delivered via Equity Group Foundation.
  • Projecting 25 million new jobs to empower refugees in Kenya by 2030.

Equity Group CEO James Mwangi underlined the initiative’s goal of transforming lives, dignifying refugees and fostering wealth creation.

Scaling Refugee Entrepreneurship

Rwanda-founded social enterprise Inkomoko has played a transformative role in supporting refugee and host-community entrepreneurs in Kenya. According to the organization, its support model has:

  • Served more than 12,00 clients and deployed more than $6 million in capital.
  • Helped create more than 2,500 jobs.
  • Supports more than 4,000 entrepreneurs annually, delivering business advisory, training and low-interest loans.

Examples illustrate the real impact, such as tailor Adele Mubalama, who grew her Kakuma-based business to employ 26 people and earn approximately $8,300. Similarly, according to Finance Commerce, former Ethiopian soldier Mesfin Getahun expanded his “Jesus is Lord” retail chain using a $115,00 loan from Inkomoko.

“We find that refugee business owners actually have the characteristics that make world-class entrepreneurs,” Inkomoko runner Julienne Oyler said, reporting on Finance Commerce.

Digital and Leadership Empowerment via Amahoro Coalition

Founded by Isaac Kwaku Foku, the Amahoro Coalition champions digital inclusion and leadership among refugees. Some highlights, according to the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), include:

  • 2022 partnership with Kenya’s Aijira Digital Program to enable Kakuma and Dadaab residents to work online, delivering business solutions to Kenyan companies via digital platforms.
  • Offering digital training free of charge to help transition to online jobs.

Mandating the country a “digital freelancing hub” supporting youth in accessing jobs online. Additionally, in June 2024, Amahoro launched a 12-month mentorship program for women with lived displacement experience within the Amahoro Fellowship. Amahoro is moving refugees beyond humanitarian aid toward genuine economic participation and leadership by merging digital capacity-building, mentorship and private-sector engagement.

Rights, Resources and the Road Ahead

While these strides signal hope, key challenges remain. Refugees still lack full freedom of movement and citizenship rights, limiting mobility and economic opportunity. Camp schools run at 300% capacity and water sanitation infrastructure remains inadequate.

Observers warn that prioritizing livelihoods over rights could jeopardize long-term inclusion. Broader legal protections and clear citizenship pathways are still urgently needed. 

– Clarissa Dean

Clarissa is based in Bowling Green, KY, USA and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Refugee Week 2025: Top 10 Events

Refugee Week 2025: Top 10 eventsJune 16-22, 2025, was Refugee Week, a seven-day festival of exhibitions, talks and events honouring the growing community of those who have been forcibly displaced by conflict, persecution and human rights violations. Taking place in June each year to coincide with June 20, World Refugee Day, the theme for 2025 was ‘Community as a Superpower’, highlighting the importance of banding together to show simple acts of kindness to those who have had to flee their homes. 

Top 10 Events

Below is a list of the top 10 events that took place during Refugee Week in the United Kingdom (U.K.) across schools, community centers and online.

  1. Serving up Sisterhood Recipe Book. Women for Women International (WfWI), an organisation set up following the Bosnian War where bad actors used rape as a weapon of war against an estimated 50,000 women, has released Serving up Sisterhood, a free, online recipe book. The e-book features 15 traditional recipes from women from 10 countries, including Afghanistan, Kosovo and Nigeria and hopes to evoke flavors of home and foster a sense of community among displaced women and women in poverty.  
  2. Big Leaf Foundation’s Refugee Week (Surrey). Big Leaf Foundation, a Surrey-based organisation working to improve the wellbeing of young displaced people, hosted a series of events this Refugee Week, including an Open Mic night featuring rap, poetry and storytelling; a Sports for Connection football tournament; and Welcome to Our Table, a theatre performance incorporating elements of spoken word, shadow puppetry, live music and food.
  3. The Refugee Week 2025 Film Program. Counterpoints Arts and Other Cinemas joined forces to come up with a film program for the week, which includes two feature-length films (from Gaza and Afghanistan) and five shorts (from Vietnam, Jamaica, Nigeria, Iran and El Salvador). Furthermore, all of the films are free and globally accessible and explore personal experiences of those who have fled their homes. 
  4. ‘Photos of Edinburgh by New Scots’ Exhibition. A new exhibition at St Mary’s Cathedral in Edinburgh depicts the city through the eyes of refugees and migrants who are new to the Scottish capital. Having all taken part in English classes at the cathedral, the photographers display their new home as they see it, providing a new outlook on the city. The exhibition ran through June 30, 2025.
  5. Community Clean-Up. Yorkshire VOICES Network hosted a Community Clean-Up in Leeds, empowering refugees to become more active members of their community. The event also had the aim of raising awareness of the need to protect the environment, strengthening community bonds and providing a platform for refugees to speak up about their neighbourhoods.
  6. ‘Pigments of Prose’ exhibition. Curated in partnership with Portsmouth Libraries and Archives, Portsmouth Central Library has organised an exhibition running until Oct. 1, 2025. Drawing upon themes of migration, resilience and cultural identity, this diverse exhibition of poetry, visual art and lived experiences of migration invites those who visit to reflect on their notions of expression and community.
  7. ‘A Place at the Table’ Exhibition. In the run-up to Refugee Week, Mercer Art Gallery held a series of workshops for Afghan women who now live in Harrogate. Seated around a large table, the women spent six weeks crafting a tablecloth whilst sharing their personal stories, uniting them while they created a unique piece of art. The tablecloth was on display at the museum during Refugee Week.
  8. Self-Advocacy Workshop. The Leeds Refugee Forum set up this workshop, which was open to all, with the aim of teaching those who have been displaced how to speak up for themselves and communicate their needs. There were also members of staff to answer questions that those attending had about advocating for themselves.
  9. Refugee Education Conference. The University of Winchester led a conference uniting refugees and those who work to support them. With exhibitions, presentations and workshops, as well as networking amongst local charity members, the event promoted an increased understanding of education, particularly how to support young refugees succeed in the education system.
  10. ‘To Own Nothing and the Whole World’ Exhibition. Artists Henna Asikainen and Roua Horanieh put together this exhibition on home and belonging at Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, which will show until July 6, 2025. Featuring foraged materials from the local area, the art focuses on the links between migration and the environment, specifically the interconnectedness of people, plants and places. 

Looking Ahead

Refugee Week highlights the experiences of forcibly displaced people and includes events that recognize the cultures and resilience of refugee communities. According to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), one in every 67 people worldwide has been forced to flee their home and children make up 40% of all refugees. However, efforts like donating to refugee-focused charities, volunteering with local organizations or helping to foster a welcoming environment can spell a more positive future for refugee communities.

– Elsa Tarring

Elsa is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Making Mental Health in Global Aid a Priority

Making Mental Health a Priority in Global AidMental health remains underrepresented in global humanitarian response. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), common mental health conditions account for 10% of the global disease burden, yet mental health programs receive less than 2% of international health funding. In humanitarian settings, mental health challenges are widespread: data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) indicates that up to one in three displaced individuals may experience depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress. In conflict zones, refugee camps and low-income communities, unaddressed trauma and psychological distress hinder recovery, education and development. These conditions often go untreated, limiting the effectiveness of education, health and livelihood interventions.

Mental Health in Crisis Settings

Access to mental health care remains limited in many low-income countries. In Syria, more than half of displaced children report symptoms of depression and anxiety, but only a small portion receive psychological support, as reported by Médecins Sans Frontières. Children with untreated mental health conditions often struggle in school. Adults experiencing psychological trauma may find it difficult to participate in the workforce, while entire communities suffer from weakened social cohesion. These ongoing challenges perpetuate the cycle of poverty.

A Shift Toward Integrated Solutions

Several organizations now recognize the value of integrating mental health into humanitarian aid. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) equips local health workers in Lebanon and South Sudan with training in psychological first aid and ongoing mental health care. This approach ensures sustainability and culturally appropriate care while reducing stigma.

In Nepal, Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) runs community-based mental health programs that are both cost-effective and scalable. By training teachers, social workers and community leaders to identify and refer individuals with mental health needs, TPO Nepal ensures that services reach even the most remote areas. These community-based models improve sustainability and reduce stigma.

Mental Health Crisis Among Marginalized Groups

Even in high-income nations, marginalized communities face significant mental health challenges. Indigenous groups in Canada and Australia report high rates of suicide and depression linked to intergenerational trauma and systemic neglect. A 2023 report by the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues called for culturally grounded mental health services as part of international development partnerships.

In British Columbia, Canada’s First Nations Health Authority has launched community-led healing programs rooted in Indigenous traditions. These initiatives, supported in part by development funding, serve as a model for mental health in global aid that respects cultural identity while addressing clinical needs.

Likewise, refugee communities in Europe face significant barriers to mental health care. Programs like the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Network bridge the gap by providing trauma-informed therapy to displaced people from Syria, Afghanistan and other war-torn countries. 

The Economic and Social Payoff

According to the World Bank, each dollar invested in mental health generates a $4 return through better health outcomes and increased productivity. According to the WHO, untreated depression and anxiety in low-income countries cost  $1 trillion annually. Moreover, mental health support enhances the effectiveness of other aid sectors. For instance, in education, children receiving psychosocial support are more likely to stay in school. In post-conflict reconstruction, communities with mental health services are better equipped to rebuild trust and social infrastructure.

Moving Forward

Expanding the role of mental health in humanitarian aid involves increasing financial investment, integrating psychological support into broader health initiatives and supporting community-based, culturally informed services. Training local health workers can potentially improve the accessibility and continuity of care while helping reduce stigma. As humanitarian needs become more complex, aligning mental health with long-term development efforts could enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of global aid.

– Rhasna Albuquerque

Rhasna is based in Fortaleza, Brazil and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Assisting Refugees in the EU

How the EU Is Responding to the Refugee Crisis

The refugee crisis has remained a critical issue in the European Union (EU) since 2015. Refugees from countries such as Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia have fled war and persecution, settling across Europe. Many have sought to integrate into their host countries. Here’s a look at the steps the EU has taken to assist refugees and some stories that demonstrate the outcomes of these ongoing efforts.

EU Funding and Policy Measures

The EU leads international donors in supporting displaced people, contributing more than €1.7 billion to refugee efforts. As of 2021, the EU allocated €6.24 billion through the Integrated Border Management Fund (IBMF). This funding supports border security, the processing of asylum cases, legal migration and the protection of vulnerable individuals arriving in Europe. In addition, the EU pledged €9.98 billion from 2021 to 2027 for refugee integration and legal migration. These funds aim to improve the transition process for refugees and support long-term development in host communities.

Reception and Resettlement of Refugees

Since 2015, the EU has provided shelter for more than 119,000 displaced individuals, including 40,000 Syrian refugees. Despite tightening regulations, member states have continued to admit refugees through resettlement programs. Germany, for example, accepted 2.14 million refugees in 2015 alone, the highest number among EU countries. These resettlement efforts reflect the EU’s commitment to providing support and resources to people fleeing violence and instability.

Impact and Continued Support

The financial and logistical efforts made by the EU have played a role in improving refugee integration. While political challenges remain, increased funding has enhanced the EU’s capacity to manage the crisis and offer long-term support for new arrivals. Efforts have included housing assistance, education and vocational training, as well as support for job placement and language acquisition. These measures help refugees build stable lives in their host countries.

Personal Stories of Integration

Individual experiences demonstrate how EU programs can help refugees rebuild their lives.

Iyad Selik, a Syrian refugee, arrived in Germany during the Syrian civil war in 2015. In Syria, he owned a sweet shop that was destroyed in the conflict. With local support, Iyad opened a new shop in Germany, reestablishing his livelihood and contributing to his new community.

Nadira, also from Syria, received assistance from the EU Trust Fund for Syria (EUTF). Through the fund, she accessed an internship and later secured part-time employment. Nadira also gained skills in computer science and improved her English proficiency, enhancing her job prospects and ability to integrate.

These stories reflect how support programs have assisted individuals in adapting to new environments and building futures for themselves and their families.

Looking Ahead

As displacement continues due to global conflicts, the EU’s role in supporting refugees remains essential. Ongoing investments in integration, legal migration and asylum processing could shape future efforts. While challenges persist, the EU continues to refine its approach and expand support to meet evolving needs across the region.

– Joel Raymer

Joel is based in Derby, Derbyshire, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Nauru Detention Center: An Example for the World?

Nauru Detention CenterNauru, once the richest nation globally, now stands among the most vulnerable due to intense phosphate mining that depleted its soil and main income source. In 2001, Nauruan authorities agreed to host a regional Australian offshore processing center in exchange for development aid. Under this arrangement, asylum-seekers headed for Australia are sent to the island during their resettlement process. With the increasing number of asylum-seekers worldwide and ongoing debates over foreign policy and immigration, several European countries are contemplating adopting Australia’s approach.

UK’s Immigration Strategy

The United Kingdom’s (U.K.’s) 2021 Plan for Immigration highlights its commitment to future migration partnerships and amends sections 77 and 78 of the Nationality Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 to allow for the transfer of asylum seekers from the U.K. while their claims or appeals are pending. The plan also keeps options open for offshore asylum processing if needed in the future. This approach remains pertinent as, in July 2024, the Guardian reported British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s openness to processing refugees offshore.

Human Rights Concerns

Although the U.K. intends to follow international regulations, the Nauru Detention Center can serve as a warning to other nations seeking to implement similar standards, as Human Rights Watch and prominent media outlets have denounced the poor living conditions and reported human rights violations in these facilities. Since 2013, people held at the Nauru Processing Center have been subject to several human rights violations, living in substandard conditions and in a seemingly endless uncertainty of whether they will be able to find resettlement elsewhere. 

Tragic Incidents and Living Conditions

In 2016, this situation gained major international attention when Omid Masoumali, a 23-year-old Iranian refugee who sought asylum in Australia, lit himself on fire in an act of protest against the country’s cruel detention policy. Detained for more than three years in Nauru, Omid died two days later.

In an interview for Amnesty International, Elham Arouni Hesari, Omid’s mother, said her son “loved Australia, but the way the country rejected and took his life will forever torture [her].” She elaborated on the wounds he acquired – internal bleeding and burns – and questioned why he was operated on in ill-equipped medical facilities. Refugees receive inhumane treatment, residing in moldy, overcrowded and unhygienic tents where they lack both safety and privacy. With little access to education and proper housing, children and parents often reported feeling unsafe due to the guards’ aggressive and threatening behavior.

Nauru’s Health Care Crisis

Dr. Nick Martin, along with other health care specialists and Nauruans, find the health care system on the island unsatisfactory and inadequate for the community’s needs. The Nauruan government struggles with a deepening health crisis, especially regarding refugee protection. For the past 11 years, patients frequently needed medical treatment overseas but were often denied transfer to Australian hospitals, leading to worsened health outcomes and sometimes fatal consequences.

Despite Australia investing significantly in Nauru’s health facilities—approximately A$865,000 annually per person—medical treatment remains insufficient. With a small community, Nauru is ill-equipped to meet the needs of its increasingly vulnerable population. Independent reviews by the Australian Medical Association have highlighted critical gaps, including a lack of access to essential items like glasses or medications for existing conditions.

Meghna Abraham, Director of Global Thematic Issues at Amnesty International, has strongly criticized these practices, stating, “Nauru has failed to provide refugees with the health care they desperately need. Denying them medical transfers is yet another blow and demonstrates just how far the human rights of refugees have slipped down Nauru and Australia’s agendas.”

Challenges Faced by Refugees

Refugees who have integrated into the Nauruan community face significant challenges, as highlighted in the latest report by the Asylum Seeker Resources Centre (ASRC). Despite promises of necessities upon release from closed detention, many still struggle to afford three meals a day, clothes, drinking water, towels and shoes.

An anonymous asylum-seeker explained the financial hardships to ASRC: “Everything on Nauru is very expensive and the financial allowance of $230 per fortnight is not enough. The phone and internet package is $100 and drinking water is $70, this leaves $60 for food and all other expenses. IHMS doctors told us to eat fruits and vegetables, but we cannot afford it and it is affecting our health.”

Accommodation also presents challenges, with more than 35 people residing in complexes similar to detention centers, sharing cramped spaces with inadequate facilities. Some report needing to walk two hours to reach a bus stop. Additionally, the cost of phone credit prevents many from keeping in touch with their families, exacerbating mental health issues in a ss=”yoast-text-mark”>ss=”yoast-text-mark”>ss=”yoast-text-mark”>ss=”yoast-text-mark”>ss=”yoast-text-mark”>f=”https://asrc.org.au/2024/10/17/people-held-on-nauru-moved-into-community-and-face-further-challenges/”>community where 22% already suffer from serious mental conditions.

Lessons from Nauru

The Nauru Detention Center serves as a cautionary tale against penalizing asylum-seekers. In the U.K., former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s goal of >stopping small boat crossings and perceived successes in Australia in reducing irregular arrivals have contributed to the belief that such systems work. However, beyond significant human rights concerns, the costs of maintaining the Nauru Detention Center are astronomical—approximately $573,000 per person each year, according to a 2019 report by Save the Children, Get Up!, and the ASRC. Current opinions and developments indicate a failure to learn from Australia’s mistakes, with scholars criticizing the government for “seeking to enact cruel policies for populist political gain.”

– Beatriz Cicci

Beatriz is based in London, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Organizations Improving Homelessness in Eritrea

Organizations Improving Homelessness in Eritrea Eritrea, after gaining independence from Ethiopia, enjoyed four years of stability. However, climate challenges such as drought led to a significant decline in water resources and food production. The usual rainy season along the coast ceased, adversely affecting farmers’ agricultural output. With a poverty threshold of $1.90, many families fell into debt and poverty. The return of Eritrean refugees from war exacerbated housing shortages, making it increasingly difficult to find rental homes due to limited availability and lack of employment opportunities. Consequently, many resorted to living in slums in urban centers, facing neglect and overcrowding, highlighting the severe impacts of homelessness in Eritrea.

International Fund for Agricultural Development

Stabilizing the ecosystem is a top priority for International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), addressing the impact of droughts and climate shocks on homelessness in Eritrea. Since 1966, IFAD has concentrated efforts in rural areas, where poverty rates are highest, by integrating climate change adaptation strategies to enhance crop production and combat malnutrition. The focus has been on raising awareness among women and youth about sustainable fishing and marketing techniques, promoting conservation farming and developing climate-smart technologies to boost the agricultural sector. Moreover, IFAD is dedicated to establishing a market-oriented rural agriculture to enhance rural livelihoods and food security.

A key initiative is the Fisheries Resources Management Programme (FReMP), which aims to transform the small-scale fisheries sector into a sustainable industry with increased yields. This program also supports the creation of enterprises that provide the necessary tools for maintaining a sustainable fishing business, particularly in coastal areas that house small-scale fishermen and youth entrepreneurs.

UNICEF

Eritrea faces significant challenges, including drought, a lack of safe water and economic hardships, affecting more than 1.1 million people. In response, The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) collaborates with the government to enhance preparedness and risk management. The organization has donated $14.7 million to improve the quality of drinking water and has initiated basic education programs for vulnerable families. These ongoing efforts include both formal and informal learning spaces staffed with skilled teachers to address educational deficits among the homeless.

UNICEF is addressing malnutrition by distributing ready-to-use therapeutic food and partnering with the Ministry of Health to enhance care in neonatal intensive care units. Mobile outreach clinics are being deployed to provide health care services to isolated and homeless populations, improving access to nutrition and sanitation. To further ensure access to clean water, the implementation of rechargeable water wells is underway to protect groundwater supplies.

Mental health, a significant concern among the homeless, is being tackled through community-based rehabilitation and frequent home visits, benefiting those with disabilities. These initiatives are gaining visibility through national media and feedback from the U.S. public and quarterly monitoring visits help UNICEF evaluate the effectiveness of their interventions. Bridget Talkty from A New Leaf notes that mental health issues and high rent costs are leading causes of homelessness, emphasizing the importance of addressing these factors.

Caritas Eritrea

Caritas, aligned with the mission of the Catholic Church, promotes justice for impoverished communities globally, focusing significantly on Eritrea. In Eritrea, Caritas operates a supplementary feeding program benefiting 35,000 individuals, coordinating with advisors in Asmara, Keren and Barentu. Additionally, the organization undertakes emergency aid projects to address climate-induced challenges, particularly drought. Aid is distributed through church clinics, including providing five goats and lambs to farming households to enhance their food and nutrient sources. Talty adds that although providing resources is the primary step in helping homelessness, people “should assist these programs that help them become more independent.”

Looking Forward

Efforts to address homelessness in Eritrea continue through targeted interventions by IFAD, UNICEF and Caritas Eritrea. These organizations focus on sustainable agriculture, access to clean water, nutrition and mental health support for vulnerable populations. By empowering women, youth and small-scale fishermen, IFAD aims to enhance livelihoods and food security. UNICEF improves water access, health care and education, while Caritas provides resources and aid to support communities affected by drought and economic hardship. Together, these initiatives strive to alleviate the impacts of climate challenges and poverty across the country.

– Linda Yoonseo Lee

Linda  is based in Phoenix, AZ, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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EU Aid in Ukraine: €40 Million for Ukraine Moldovan Refugees

EU Pledges €40 Million Winter Aid for Ukraine Moldovan RefugeesIn the first year following the outbreak of war, more than 8,000 Ukrainian civilians lost their lives, prompting one of the fastest population movements since World War II as individuals were compelled to abandon their homes. Within Ukraine, 6 million people were displaced, while another 8 million sought refuge in other countries. By March 2023, 11 million Ukrainians were facing hunger—nearly a third of the population. In response, the European Union (EU) recently announced an additional €40 million, equivalent to $44 million, in humanitarian aid for Ukraine during the upcoming winter months. According to a European Commission press release, €35 million will fund humanitarian projects in Ukraine, while €5 million will support Ukrainian refugees in Moldova. Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, the EU has contributed more than €88 billion in humanitarian, economic and military aid to Ukraine.

EU Aid in Ukraine

The war in Ukraine has resulted in serious humanitarian consequences, displacing 3.3 million people and leaving 14.6 million in need of humanitarian assistance. Many lack access to water and electricity in areas on the frontline of the fighting. This underscores the importance of continued support from international organizations like the EU. So far, EU aid in Ukraine has funded the creation of mobile health care buses, which provide crucial health services to vulnerable people in the most affected regions of the country.

Through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, the EU has provided transported emergency medical equipment, temporary shelters and power generators. Additionally, the organization has established the Ukraine Facility, a €50 billion fund aimed at rebuilding Ukraine from 2024 to 2027, post-war. Of the recent EU aid, €35 million will support humanitarian efforts during the harsh winter, ensuring that homes in affected regions have adequate heating and electricity and setting up emergency shelters for those in need.

EU Refugees in Moldova

The EU has allocated €5 million of its recent funding to support Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, a neighboring country that has welcomed Ukrainian refugees since Russia’s invasion in 2022. Approximately 1.5 million Ukrainian refugees have entered Moldova, with around 120,000 still residing there as of June, according to the European Commission. Given its size, Moldova faces significant economic challenges due to the influx of refugees. Thus, continued support for Ukrainian refugees in Moldova by organizations like the EU remains critical. The EU plans to use the €5 million fund to assist the most vulnerable Ukrainian refugees in Moldova and to enhance border preparedness for potential future refugee flows.

Moving Forward

The EU’s recent funding commitment aims to address the growing humanitarian needs in Ukraine and support those displaced by the conflict in neighboring Moldova. As the winter months approach, the aid will focus on providing critical resources such as shelter, heating and health services to vulnerable communities. This support reflects ongoing international efforts to alleviate the hardships faced by millions affected by the conflict and to assist neighboring countries bearing the brunt of refugee influxes.

– Joshua Marriott

Joshua is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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ENOUGH Campaign: Food Insecurity Among Syrian Refugees

ENOUGH CampaignSyria has some of the highest levels of hunger across the globe. The World Food Programme found that around 12.9 million people go hungry, with an additional 2.6 million at risk of food insecurity. By 2023, the World Food Programme asserted that the available humanitarian aid was insufficient to combat this growing issue. This prediction was based on the persisting conflict, weak domestic food system and continued environmental blows, such as the Feb. 2023 earthquake. The ENOUGH Campaign is addressing these urgent needs by targeting child malnutrition and food insecurity.

Refugee Challenges in Host Nations

The conditions for Syrian refugees in host nations are also worsening. The UNHCR reported in March 2023 that Lebanon, the host nation with one of the most significant numbers of refugees, suffered a currency loss of 95% in value, resulting in staggering prices for basic needs. Furthermore, of the 6.8 million Syrian refugees globally, 5.5 million of them reside in neighboring countries. In Jordan, the UNHCR estimates four-fifths of refugees live below the poverty line. Additionally, refugees in Iraq and Egypt face major food insecurity issues in camps. 

Personal Struggles of Syrian Refugees

The UNHCR interviewed Khandra, a 50-year-old widow and Syrian refugee with five sons, a daughter-in-law and three grandchildren. Among many harrowing realities, Khandra recounts, she described her son, 3 years old, when he fled Syria’s daily life. Adnan “wakes up every day at six in the morning to sell tissues on the highway and never returns before 10 or 11 at night. On a good day, he can make around 200,000 Lebanese lira (around $2), while on other days, he sells nothing at all.”

World Vision’s Response to the ENOUGH Campaign

To combat this issue, World Vision International launched ENOUGH in Sept. 2023 to end child hunger and malnutrition by investing $3.4 billion over three years in 67 countries. World Vision has been enacting this to assist Syrian refugees by providing food, water, shelter and education services to more than 7.5 million people. Additionally, on the heels of Feb. 2023’s catastrophic earthquake, World Vision has utilized ENOUGH to provide vital support to those in Syria and surrounding countries. World Vision has reached 2.4 million people in Syria and Turkiye with their earthquake response plan, 75 million people and one million children in Syria and the surrounding countries with regular interventions.

Ongoing Challenges and the Call for Continued Support

The Syrian refugee crisis continues to be in dire need of humanitarian aid, despite global efforts, this has fallen short. Refugees in Lebanon and Jordan are facing increasingly difficult conditions due to economic collapse and widespread poverty, with families like Khandra struggling daily. Khandra’s son’s exhausting routine reflects the harsh realities these communities endure. As food insecurity rises and debt deepens, survival is challenging.

World Vision International’s ENOUGH campaign aims to combat child malnutrition and poverty through substantial investment, but broader global cooperation is crucial. While campaigns like this provide hope, the crisis continues to receive attention. As millions lack basic resources, to protect the most vulnerable it’s vital to keep this at the forefront of humanitarian efforts. Success in meeting ENOUGH’s goals could ensure survival and safeguard future generations.

– Lydia Young

Lydia is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Support For Displaced Persons In Burkina Faso

Support For Displaced Persons In Burkina FasoBurkina Faso, a low-income West African country, is facing a series of unprecedented crises. It has endured droughts, internal conflicts and terrorism, which have displaced millions and left about 6 million people reliant on humanitarian aid. The scope of this crisis is vast, with many displaced persons in Burkina Faso needing assistance.

Crisis in Burkina Faso

The crisis in Burkina Faso has reached catastrophic levels, compounded by inadequate funding that limits necessities, a lack of international diplomatic intervention to help broker peace and insufficient media coverage to raise awareness and spur action. In 2023, the country experienced its highest number of armed conflicts, which displaced more than 2 million people by year’s end. With ongoing disputes revealing no signs of diminishing, the number of displaced continues to rise.

The UNHCR and Digital Hub

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) collaborates with various organizations to offer programs that equip displaced persons with sustainable income sources. This initiative reduces their dependency on humanitarian aid and helps restore their normal lives.

In 2022, UNHCR and Wakatlab launched a “digital hub” in Kaya, a northern city in Burkina Faso, to support displaced people. This center offers round-the-clock internet access and uses solar panels for sustainable, low-cost electricity. It aims to enhance digital literacy and social media knowledge among displaced people and host communities, while also providing educational opportunities in information technology, agriculture, entrepreneurship and computer sciences. The hub has already enabled many individuals to start successful businesses and rebuild their lives. Its successful model holds the potential for replication in other areas to improve the lives of internally displaced people and refugees.

Models for Expansion in Burkina Faso

Launching programs across Burkina Faso and neighboring countries could enhance the lives of displaced people, provide them with opportunities and help reduce the burden on host communities. The UNHCR and other organizations can potentially replicate successful programs from around the world in regions that host refugees. Below are some successful initiatives currently operating in similar environments:

  • Melkadida Compact- Ikea Foundations’s collaboration with UNHCR. A few years ago, the Ikea Foundation began a partnership with UNHCR in a remote area of Ethiopia. This collaboration focuses on enhancing the region’s water and electricity supply, food security and job opportunities for refugees and host communities. The goal is to help these communities become self-sustaining and reduce their reliance on aid. This partnership has positively impacted more than 200,000 refugees offering them job training opportunities.
  • Win-Win Program. Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB) is a nonprofit organization operating in seven countries hosting refugees, including Jordan. TBB strives to match refugees with global job opportunities that align with their talents and education. So far, it has helped 1,200 refugees secure jobs worldwide. The program aims to assist an additional 15,000 in finding employment over the next five years.

Looking Ahead

Globally, 117.3 million people have been forced to leave their homes, becoming refugees or internally displaced. Most endure deplorable living conditions and extreme poverty throughout their lives. Reducing global poverty requires providing individuals with opportunities to support themselves and escape poverty. This is never more so than for the displaced persons in Burkina Faso.

– Maria Waleed

Maria is based in Yokohama, Kanagwa, Japan and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Anera: Providing Relief in Gaza

Anera: Providing Relief in GazaIn Gaza, a region marred by conflict and instability, the plight of refugees and civilians caught in the crossfire is often dire. Among the organizations dedicated to alleviating this suffering is American Near East Refugee Aid (Anera), which focuses on the development and relief needs of refugees and others impacted by conflicts in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon and Jordan.

Anera’s Mission and Scope

Anera was established to address the pressing needs of those affected by conflict in the Middle East. With a particular focus on Palestinians and residents of East Jerusalem, Anera provides humanitarian relief through various programs aimed at health, education and economic development. The organization’s holistic approach ensures that immediate needs are met while also paving the way for long-term improvements.

Providing Vital Medical Supplies

In conflict zones like Gaza, medical supplies are often scarce and health care facilities are overwhelmed. Anera’s intervention is critical in this context. According to its website, a donation of $30 can supply the Central Blood Bank Society in Gaza with 16 blood bags. This seemingly small contribution can have a significant impact, as it supports the health care system in handling emergencies and routine medical needs. Blood bags are essential for surgeries, trauma care and treating chronic conditions, making them a vital resource in any medical facility.

Hygiene and sanitation are fundamental to preventing the spread of diseases, particularly in areas with high population density and inadequate infrastructure. Anera’s hygiene kits, costing $80 each, can support two displaced families. These kits typically include items such as soap, disinfectants, sanitary pads and other essentials. By providing these kits, Anera helps maintain the health and dignity of displaced individuals, reducing the risk of outbreaks of illnesses that can thrive in unsanitary conditions.

Food Aid for Families

Food security is a significant concern in Gaza and the West Bank, where economic instability and blockades have severely limited access to necessities. Anera’s food assistance programs are a lifeline for many families. A donation of $100 can provide enough food for a displaced family to last seven to 10 days, ensuring that they have access to nutritious meals. For $200, Anera can supply food to two families, doubling the impact. These food parcels often include staples such as rice, lentils, canned goods and cooking oil, offering a balanced diet to those in need.

Impact on Gaza and the West Bank

Anera’s efforts in Gaza and the West Bank have been particularly impactful. In Gaza, where the blockade has created severe shortages of almost everything, Anera’s provision of medical supplies, food and hygiene kits has alleviated some of the immediate suffering. In the West Bank, Anera’s projects support not only refugees but also residents facing economic hardships. The organization’s work in these regions addresses both the symptoms and the root causes of poverty and hunger.

Beyond Gaza and the West Bank, Anera’s work extends to Lebanon and Jordan, where many Palestinian refugees reside. In Lebanon, the economic crisis and political instability have exacerbated the challenges faced by refugees. Anera’s programs in Lebanon include education, vocational training and health care services, aimed at improving the quality of life and fostering self-reliance among refugees. In Jordan, Anera supports Palestinian and Syrian refugees through similar initiatives. The organization’s comprehensive approach ensures that the assistance provided is relevant and effective, addressing the unique needs of each community.

Looking Ahead

Anera’s comprehensive aid efforts in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon and Jordan address the immediate humanitarian needs of refugees and civilians affected by conflict. By providing essential medical supplies, hygiene kits and food assistance, Anera helps to improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations. These ongoing efforts not only offer relief from current hardships but could contribute to long-term stability and development in the region.

– Sakshi Bhagat

Sakshi is based in Kolkata, West Bengal, India and focuses on Good News, Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr