Archive for category: Refugees

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Translators without Borders: Fighting Misinformation

Translators without BordersMyanmar is one of the least politically stable countries in the world, having been in some state of civil war since its independence in 1948. Amid the cycle between civilian democracy, autocracy and military dictatorship, ethnic minorities have been subject to persecution and harassment. The ongoing Rohingya genocide has prompted a mass exodus to neighboring Bangladesh, which shares their Islamic faith. With the majority lacking formal education and access to a reliable and diverse media diet, the Rohingya have become a bellwether for internet-fueled misinformation.

Donor Fatigue and Repercussions

As the Rohingya crisis stretches further, aid givers are warning of the growing trend of “donor fatigue,” a phenomenon whereby major philanthropists and the public decrease interest and donations. Donor trust is fragile: it can be damaged by a single viral hoax about corruption or a misconstrued image that goes viral.

The real-world effects of donor fatigue and funding cuts are severe. As noted, food rations have already been reduced — in March 2023, monthly aid per person dropped from $12 to $10. It was on track to fall further until a last-minute funding injection stabilized it.

Diminished funding creates a vicious cycle: misinformation reduces public support, leading to funding cuts, worsening conditions and making the crisis even more challenging to resolve. As a result, displaced populations remain trapped in prolonged dependence and growing risk. Refugees International recently warned that declining aid and “ongoing restrictions on the ability to work” are forcing more Rohingya to risk dangerous sea journeys in search of survival.

Translators without Borders: Community-Led Solutions

Calling out and confining online misinformation requires a coalition of individuals, platforms, governments and nonprofits. Organizations like Translators without Borders are working to provide accurate and fact-based reporting to refugees. A particular successful program is the “Flying News” rumor bulletin. This periodic flyer, written in clear terms and translated orally by field staff for those who can’t read it, takes the latest prevalent rumors and provides verified answers and facts.

Media platforms are also mobilizing to counter misinformation. In response to international outcry, Facebook has altered its Myanmar site to contain additional algorithms automatically detecting inflammatory language. Questions arising from Facebook’s role in the Rohingya genocide have led a group of refugees to file a landmark $150 billion lawsuit against its parent company, Meta. First filed in 2021, the suit alleges that Facebook’s negligence helped fuel the violence in Myanmar. Although initially dismissed, the refugees appealed and the case is now progressing through the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The appellate decision remains pending.

Furthermore, Bangladesh-based fact-checking groups such as BD Fact Check and Boom Bangladesh have begun debunking viral falsehoods about the Rohingya in national media, helping curb the spread of misinformation in host communities. In 2018, Bangladesh’s unicameral legislature passed the Digital Security Act, which criminalizes the dissemination of “rumors” or “false information” that could destabilize the country. In theory, this law could apply to those inciting violence or spreading hoaxes about the Rohingya in refugee camps.

Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the spread of inflammatory TikToks made international headlines. It prompted the country’s security agencies to investigate the online hate campaign that sparked violence in Aceh. Authorities are working to identify the masterminds and bots behind the coordinated effort.

Moving Forward With Innovation

Since the genocide of the Rohingya began, breakthroughs in artificial intelligence have complicated things. Researchers in Indonesia have started using AI to collect and analyze data on social media. Using natural language processing and sentiment analysis, they hope to gauge public attitudes toward Rohingya refugees accurately. One recent study analyzed Indonesian Twitter and news commentaries using a BERT-based model (a form of AI language model). It found that around 65% of online sentiments about Rohingya refugees were negative.

Although long-term ramifications are poorly understood, the findings as of 2025 have demonstrated that community-led dramatizations are the most successful initiatives. Training aid organizations and expanding localized fact-checking trends in refugee camps resonate strongly. These posts are often in the local idiom and usually laced with humor to gently correct false beliefs.

In summary, Translators without Borders and others within the humanitarian sector’s approach has evolved to “fight fake news alongside the pandemic” and other crises. Aid workers now see information management as a core part of aid, not an optional add-on. These evolving strategies offer hope for protecting vulnerable populations from the dual threats of displacement and digital misinformation.

– Maxwell Marcello

Maxwell is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Connection Between Disability and Poverty in Chad

Disability and Poverty in ChadChad is the largest landlocked country in Africa, as well as being the fifth largest country on the continent. It gained independence from being a French colony in 1960, and post-independence faced conflicts, internal and external, resulting in an unstable nation. Chad boasts a rich history and some experts believe it is one of the original places where humans developed as a species. In the modern day, Chad has a population of around 21 million people and has become a place of refuge for disabled Sudanese people displaced by the Sudanese Civil War.  

Chad has seen a rise in refugees fleeing from the Sudanese Civil War, and notably, the population of disabled individuals has risen since the migration began. Here are some key facts about how the Sudanese Civil War affects disability and poverty in Chad.

Why They Flee

The most recent Sudanese Civil War began in 2023 as a result of conflict between two military forces within the country, forcing more than 15 million people from their homes. Between 10-15% of the Sudanese population is disabled due to the effects of living in a war zone and have common injuries and physical deficits such as amputated limbs, broken bones and severe burns that go on to affect the rest of people’s lives. Refugees from the war, particularly those with disabilities, have found themselves fleeing to the borders of Chad to escape the violence. Living in Chad allows some to find care for their impairments, whether these impairments be new onset or pre-existing.

The Marginalization of People With Disabilities  

As is the case in other countries around the world, disabled people living in Chad find themselves disempowered. In the social hierarchy of Chad, disabled people are often the lowest tier of society. This is due to long-held ideas of prejudice against those who are less able, which can eventually result in social isolation and exclusion. Disability and poverty in Chad are beacons for each other, each one making the other more possible.

The Increase in Refugees

Due to the Sudanese Civil War, around 1.1 million Sudanese people have fled their country to Chad. This has caused a population surge in the already severe living conditions, resulting in a stark lack of shelter, clean water and access to medical assistance. Health care is often a distance from refugee camps, and people with specific disabilities can find themselves without a mode of transportation to get treatment. This discrepancy often emphasizes the difficulties that people with disabilities in poverty face in Chad.

Disability and Poverty in Chad

With disabled people in Chad often facing issues of transportation to places such as health care facilities and job opportunities, the difficulties of escaping poverty increases. If people cannot travel to a health care clinic, then they cannot receive treatment for their disabilities and, in turn, are unable to work. Another factor influencing the difficulty in finding work for disabled people in Chad is discrimination. People with disabilities are much less likely to be hired and lose out on opportunities to make money and help them improve their financial status.

Key Takeaways

While the poverty levels in Chad are increasing due to refugees from the Sudanese Civil War, countless organizations are working to assist the people living there. These organizations work to bring awareness to the issues that Chadians face, as well as to bring relief to them directly. Disabled refugees fleeing the Sudanese Civil War receive more opportunities in Chad than in Sudan. This does not imply a perfect standard of living, but it does imply an improved one. One organization that is key in the fight against disability and poverty in Chad is UNICEF. UNICEF offers key aid to Chadian and Sudanese youth by improving living conditions, supplying clean water and adding mental health support to refugee camps. Its work centers around bringing aid to Chadians and Sudanese refugees as they fight for the return to normalcy.

– Zoe Felder

Zoe is based in Charlotte, NC, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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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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Refugee Policy and Humanitarian Leadership in Rwanda

Humanitarian Leadership in RwandaSince the 1994 genocide, Rwanda has emerged as a notable regional actor in diplomacy, peacekeeping and humanitarian policy. Despite its small size and complex history, the country has made significant contributions to refugee protection, development and regional security efforts. Rwanda’s policies on refugee rights, legal integration and service provision have earned international recognition while contributing to its broader diplomatic strategy.

Refugee Support and Integration Policies

Rwanda hosts approximately 120,000 refugees, primarily from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Burundi. The majority live in refugee camps such as Mahama, Kigeme and Kiziba, while others reside in urban areas like Kigali. Mahama, the largest camp, is home to tens of thousands of Burundian refugees, while Congolese communities are more concentrated in Kigeme and Kiziba.

Refugees in urban settings have access to employment and local services under Rwanda’s integration policy. Through a community-based health insurance scheme, many can access national health care, despite policies promoting self-reliance, practical challenges persist, including limited job opportunities and resource constraints. Refugees also face restrictions on political participation, and reports of pressure to return to their home countries have raised concerns among human rights organizations.

Legal Framework and International Collaboration

Rwanda is a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, its 1967 Protocol and the 1969 Organization of African Unity (OAU) Refugee Convention. These commitments are reflected in Rwanda’s domestic laws, including Law No. 13 ter/2014, which outlines the rights of refugees and asylum seekers. Article 18 of this law ensures that refugees enjoy liberties protected by international legal instruments.

The Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA) oversees refugee affairs and coordinates with organizations such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to implement resettlement programs and service delivery. The country’s asylum system includes national birth registration for refugees, reducing the risk of statelessness and supporting long-term integration.

Peacekeeping and Regional Influence

Rwanda has actively participated in peacekeeping operations with the African Union (AU) and United Nations (U.N.), including contributions to missions in the Central African Republic. These efforts have strengthened Rwanda’s international standing and regional influence.

At the same time, Rwanda’s involvement in neighboring conflicts has drawn scrutiny. Accusations of supporting rebel groups in the eastern DRC have sparked regional and international debate. While the Rwandan government maintains that its actions aim to protect national and regional security, organizations such as Human Rights Watch and AP News have reported ongoing tensions and concerns about the country’s role in exacerbating conflict dynamics.

Challenges to Refugee Protection

While Rwanda has been widely praised for its refugee policy framework, gaps remain. Some refugees have reported limited avenues for political expression, restricted civil liberties or difficulties accessing sustainable employment. Humanitarian organizations have raised concerns about forced or pressured returns, which would violate international protection standards. Despite these concerns, Rwanda’s refugee services continue to receive support from UNHCR and various nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), particularly in camp settings where food, shelter and basic services are more reliably delivered.

Future of Humanitarian Leadership in Rwanda

Rwanda’s approach to refugee protection combines legal commitment with regional engagement. The country has made important strides in integrating refugees into its public systems, while also contributing to peacekeeping and humanitarian diplomacy in Africa. Continued international collaboration, policy refinement and monitoring could address existing gaps and uphold refugee rights. By maintaining its focus on integration, service access and legal protections, Rwanda has the potential to build on its progress and serve as a regional model for humanitarian leadership in displacement contexts.

– Olivia Fanders

Olivia is based in Weehawken, NJ, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fighting Malnutrition in Refugee Camps With Microgreens

Malnutrition in Refugee CampsIn many parts of the world, malnutrition in refugee camps remains a persistent and deadly challenge. Refugee families often lack access to nutrient-rich foods due to limited agricultural space, inconsistent supply chains and poor infrastructure. Yet, a promising solution is emerging, one that requires minimal space, water or sunlight: microgreens.

The Power of Microgreens

Microgreens are tender, immature greens harvested just after sprouting, typically within seven to 21 days. Though small in size, they hold quite a bit of nutritional value. According to the Cleveland Clinic, microgreens are rich in vitamins C, E and K and beta-carotene and antioxidants that support heart health, reduce inflammation and may help fight chronic disease. Their concentrated nutrient content makes them an effective dietary supplement, especially in low-resource settings.

Since microgreens grow quickly and require minimal space, water and equipment, they are well-suited for refugee camps where access to fresh produce is limited. They can thrive in shallow trays with basic soil or growing mats, using only sunlight or low-energy lights. This makes them an efficient, low-cost solution for improving food security and nutrition in overcrowded and under-resourced environments.

Growing Health at Home

Families in refugee settlements across Lebanon and Jordan are improving their nutrition through small-scale gardening initiatives. Supported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and local partners, refugees are adopting keyhole gardens. This includes circular raised beds that use compost and greywater to grow various vegetables in spaces of limit and restriction. These gardens are built using readily available, recycled materials, making them affordable and sustainable for displaced households.

UNHCR reports that such gardens help increase access to fresh produce and empower families to participate actively in food production. By cultivating vegetables at home, refugees can supplement their diets with fresh, nutritious ingredients while reducing reliance on food aid.

Growing Solutions Across Africa

Refugees are improving their food security and nutrition in parts of sub-Saharan Africa through sustainable gardening practices. In Kenya’s Kakuma refugee camp, programs like the permagarden initiative have trained residents to grow vegetables using climate-resilient techniques that conserve water and enhance soil health. These small plots can be built with locally available materials and thrive in limited space, making them ideal for approaching malnutrition in refugee camps.

According to Devex, participants in the permagarden program reported increased access to diverse vegetables and greater household nutrition. Beyond physical health, gardening has also helped reduce stress and build a sense of purpose among participants. However, as the Humanitarian Practice Network notes, efforts like these face challenges from environmental extremes, such as drought and flooding, which threaten the fragile resilience systems in Kakuma.

Organizations Making an Impact

The Lemon Tree Trust is transforming how displaced communities interact with their environments by promoting gardening as a tool for resilience, dignity and self-reliance. Working primarily across the Kurdistan Region of Iraq in fighting malnutrition in refugee camps, the organization helps residents reclaim unused spaces for growing food and flowers. Through initiatives like garden competitions, community garden spaces and the distribution of seeds and plants, the Lemon Tree Trust supports displaced families in creating green spaces that nourish both body and spirit. These gardens improve access to fresh produce and foster community cohesion, mental well-being and a sense of home in uncertain settings.

Mercy Corps is also taking bold steps to support refugee self-reliance by integrating food security initiatives like microgreen farming into broader economic and social development programs. Its approach goes beyond immediate relief, aiming to unlock the long-term potential of displaced individuals. For example, Mercy Corps has significantly invested in job training, agricultural innovation and women-led entrepreneurship. These efforts are helping refugees transition from reliance on aid to lead productive, independent lives. Through partnerships and strategic funding, the organization is scaling initiatives offering nutritional and economic benefits, enabling communities to thrive even in the most challenging environments.

A Path Toward Self-Reliance

Microgreens are not a complete solution to malnutrition in refugee camps, but they offer an affordable, fast-growing and scalable way to improve health outcomes. More importantly, they place the power of food production back into the hands of the people who need it most. As international aid agencies look for sustainable ways to enhance food security, microgreens represent a small but mighty innovation with the potential to transform lives.

– Vasara Mikulevicius

Vasara is based in West Bloomfield, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Migrant Communities in Portugal: Gentrification and Deportation

Migrant Communities in PortugalGentrification in traditionally working-class neighborhoods in cities like Lisbon, Portugal, is increasing house prices. At the same time, the government’s recent plans to deport thousands of migrants are raising concerns. Together, these changes threaten multiethnic neighborhoods and immigrant identities across Portugal. However, many organizations are resisting this by empowering migrant communities in Portugal through a range of projects.

Deportation and the Rise of Populism

The recent rise in far-right populism and political strategy ahead of a general election has led to plans to deport 18,000 irregular migrants across Portugal. Luis Montenegro, leader of the center-right party Democratic Alliance and current Prime Minister, has faced criticism for announcing the deportation plans just before a snap election in May 2025 to gain voters. However, the Democratic Alliance didn’t win a majority. The head of the Socialist Party, Pedro Nuno Santos, resigned after winning the same number of seats as Chega, a relatively new far-right party rooted in anti-immigration rhetoric.

According to a Portuguese Migration and Home Affairs Office publication, attitudes toward immigrants among Portuguese people depend on their country of origin. Attitudes toward migrants from the Indian subcontinent, including countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal, are more negative. Moreover, 68% of the public believe Portugal’s immigration policies are too liberal. They also think that the presence of immigrants impacts their salaries, despite the country’s economic growth depending on sectors where most employees are migrants (such as agriculture and construction).

Gentrification and Touristification

Like many popular destinations, Portugal has become a victim of its success within the tourism industry. Lisbon had 5.6 million visitors in 2023 alone. Thanks to the rise of Airbnb, house prices are rapidly increasing while the availability of public housing is diminishing. In addition to touristification, digital nomads arriving in Portugal with higher salaries have contributed heavily to gentrification.

Although rent and house prices have risen by 120% in cities such as Lisbon, wage levels have remained stagnant. This means many people cannot afford to continue living in the neighborhoods where they grew up. Moreover, some of the neighborhoods most affected by gentrification are home to some of the most multicultural communities in Portugal, meaning that immigrants and working-class people are being pushed to the peripheries of their cities.

Organizations Empowering Migrant Communities

Despite the deportations of migrants and the cultural erosion of their neighborhoods, some grassroots organizations are stepping up. They support and empower migrant communities while resisting the effects of mass tourism, digital nomadism and far-right politics.

  1. The Lisbon Project. One of the most notable organizations empowering migrant communities in Portugal is the Lisbon Project. It is a nonprofit organization (NGO) founded in 2016 to strengthen migrant and refugee communities across Lisbon and make them feel a sense of belonging. The charity currently has 5,952 registered community members from 250 countries, with the top nationalities being Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Pakistan, Nigeria and Algeria.

    Focusing on integration and empowerment, the Lisbon Project operates across various domains, including community life, education, employability and social care. Some of its specific projects include the Benevolence Program, which provides free items such as furniture and home appliances to new arrivals). Others include the Portuguese Welcome Course and free Community Dinners, among many others. Despite currently only operating in Lisbon, the organization aims to expand into three hubs across Portugal by the end of 2030.

  2. Renovar a Mouraria Foundation. Renovar a Mouraria is another Lisbon-based NGO. However, it focuses its support on the multicultural Mouraria neighborhood, which has become a home to multiple immigrant and refugee communities in Lisbon. However, due to the neighborhood’s abandonment and marginalization, residents have been affected by drug trafficking, rising social tensions and gentrification.

    Working with various stakeholders, including the Lisbon City Council, Renovar a Mouraria has been coordinating community-strengthening services since 2008. These include integrated social support, migrant regularization, Portuguese language courses and vocational training. In addition to providing practical services, the NGO has fostered creativity and communication in the neighborhood. One example is Secondary Residence, a collaborative project where a group of residents produced a collective reflection. It was based on their interactions with local people and their experiences living in Mouraria.

  3. The Portuguese Refugee Council (CPR). Similarly, the CPR is empowering migrant communities in Portugal and addressing their marginalization by deconstructing myths about refugees. It is also providing designated spaces, including three Refugee Reception Centers.

    Operating since 1991, the CPR has supported 14,640 refugees and asylum seekers in Portugal through advocacy, legal support, international protection and training sessions. Moreover, the CPR runs multiple services and projects specifically supporting child refugees, such as the CPR daycare and the Shelter for Refugee Children.

Final Remarks

Multiculturalism and the rich history of working-class neighborhoods across Portuguese cities deserve celebration and preservation. Thanks to the amazing organizations empowering migrant communities in Portugal, resettled populations can continue to thrive and network, fostering creativity, cultural exchange and positive integration.

– Clodagh Dowson

Clodagh is based in Wiltshire, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Nagorno-Karabakh: Post-War Recovery of Refugees

Nagorno-KarabakhNagorno-Karabakh is a small territory in the South Caucasus, between the regions of Armenia and Azerbaijan. These two states have contested this piece of land since the first war in the 1990s, with 30,000 casualties and significant displacements after Armenia took control of the territory. The conflict escalated in 2020 when Azerbaijan reclaimed a large part of Nagorno-Karabakh territory, along with the support of its ally, Turkey.

Russia moderated the ceasefire due to the shared ties with both nations; however, tension prevailed. In 2022, a blockade by Azerbaijani activists at the Lachin corridor prevented the free movement of food and essential goods. Both parties accused each other of posing threats, which was not confirmed. What remains clear is the consequent humanitarian crisis leading to an urgent post-war recovery of Nagorno-Karabakh refugees.

Blockade of Lachin Corridor

The Azerbaijani military operation led to the displacement of thousands of ethnic Armenians from their homes. The blockade in the Lachin corridor left the population facing a severe shortage of resources essential to survival, such as medical and food supplies. The Azerbaijani government has been criticized internationally due to its failure to ensure a safe passage for the population and human rights violations.

The International Committee for the Red Cross (ICRC) and Russian peacekeepers tried sending aid, which the Azerbaijani administration had blocked, alleging unauthorized objects among them.

Displacement and Daily Struggles

Thirteen-year-old Natalie Musayelian fled Nagorno-Karabakh with her family. On her way, she collected berries, stones and a branch, keeping all the items in a small box of chocolates and the key to her house. Currently, she lives in Armenia with her aunt and grandmother. She misses her home every day and cherishes these objects as memories and comfort after the loss. Her story is just one of many people who were displaced from their homes due to the conflict.

Many refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh have fled to the capital of Armenia, Yerevan and the region of Syunik. Armenia has already opened shelters and provided social aid for the displaced population. The U.N. launched a $97 million funding appeal to ease the burden on the volunteers and the Armenian host community. However, it anticipates further movement of people as they search for employment and long-term housing.

The Role of the US Foreign Aid

In 2023, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Samantha Power visited Armenia after a disproportionate number of displacements. She announced $11.5 million in U.S. humanitarian aid, providing essential supplies and psychosocial services. The collection of refugee testimonies enabled the criticism of the blockade. Furthermore, they reaffirmed the high level of concern for a post-war recovery of Nagorno-Karabakh refugees.

Furthermore, the U.N. World Food Program (WFP) hosted a two-day visit from USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) to assess support for refugee families. The delegation collaborated with local officials, social workers and even families, such as a grandmother in Kotayk struggling with her grandchildren’s care. USAID’s BHA provided a $1.13 million grant for emergency food assistance, which helped 30,000 refugees. Additionally, from February to September 2024, food cards and parcels were distributed to alleviate short-term needs, ensuring the families’ well-being.

– Sara Arias Saiz

Sara is based in Leipzig, Germany and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Power of Refugee Entrepreneurship in Rebuilding Futures

Refugee EntrepreneurshipFor the millions displaced by war, persecution, or natural disasters, rebuilding their lives is an overwhelming challenge. Yet amid the uncertainty of displacement, a powerful force is emerging: refugee entrepreneurship. Across regions often overlooked by global media, displaced individuals are turning hardship into opportunity by creating small businesses, generating income and restoring dignity in their host communities.

In countries bordering conflict zones, where formal job opportunities are scarce and refugees often face legal uncertainties, entrepreneurship emerges as both a lifeline and a source of empowerment. Many are launching bakeries, electronic repair stands and food stalls—ventures that reflect resilience and draw upon rich cultural traditions.

Uganda: A Refugee Economy in Action

One example can be seen in Uganda, home to more than 1.6 million refugees, primarily from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the settlements of northern Uganda, informal markets have flourished. There, refugee-led businesses provide vital goods and services not only to fellow refugees but also to local Ugandan populations. This exchange fosters economic integration and builds social cohesion.

Key to this entrepreneurial growth is access to microcredit and skills training. Local NGOs and community-based organizations play a central role, offering workshops on financial literacy, digital skills and basic business management. Though resources are often scarce, these initiatives help refugees turn personal talents into viable livelihoods.

The Rise of Informal Businesses in Jordan

In Jordan, where more than 600,000 Syrian refugees reside, informal businesses have sprung up in camps and urban areas alike. While regulatory hurdles remain, particularly regarding business permits and movement, many Syrians have found ways to offer services such as hairdressing, tutoring or mobile phone sales. These businesses reflect both resilience and the desire to reclaim agency in an environment often defined by limitations.

Despite the barriers, refugee entrepreneurship thrives because of its adaptability. Refugees are uniquely positioned to identify gaps in local markets and respond with innovative solutions. In many cases, their businesses introduce new flavors, fabrics, techniques and perspectives that enrich the local culture.

Critically, the impact of refugee entrepreneurship extends beyond economic self-sufficiency. It cultivates hope and purpose, rebuilding identities fractured by displacement. It also challenges dominant narratives that portray refugees solely as victims or burdens. By creating jobs, paying taxes and participating in local economies, refugee entrepreneurs are demonstrating their potential as contributors to the future of their communities.

Policy, Legal Barriers Remain

Significant challenges still hinder these initiatives. Policy frameworks in many host countries remain restrictive, limiting refugees’ ability to register businesses, open bank accounts or move freely. Advocacy and inclusive policies are necessary to ensure that refugee entrepreneurship is not confined to the informal sector. Recognition of their economic potential must be matched by legal and institutional support.

In places where resources are limited, community-driven models of support have proven effective. Peer mentorship and shared workspaces are just a few of the grassroots strategies helping displaced individuals launch and sustain their businesses.

Refugee Entrepreneurship: The Future

As the global refugee population surpasses 100 million, according to the World Bank, the need for durable, dignified solutions has never been greater. Empowering refugees through entrepreneurship is not just a path toward economic stability; it is a pathway to healing, agency and long-term development. Refugees are more than their displacement. Through refugee entrepreneurship, they are redefining their futures—not as dependents, but as business owners, innovators and agents of change.

– 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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Refugee Education: A Catalyst for Development

Refugee Education: A Catalyst for Development In a world marked by record levels of displacement, refugee education has emerged not only as a moral imperative but as a cornerstone of sustainable development and global stability. More than 114 million people have been forcibly displaced worldwide, including 14.8 million school-aged refugees, half of whom are out of school. The question is no longer whether to educate these children, but how and with what resources. While primary education often garners the spotlight in humanitarian efforts, post-primary education unlocks leadership potential, vocational skills and long-term empowerment. Yet access to secondary and tertiary education remains tragically limited for refugees.

According to the UNHCR 2024 Education Report, just 42% of refugee children make it to secondary school, compared to a global average of 77%. This number decreases even more dramatically in tertiary education, falling to 7% compared with a 42% global average. This disparity reflects a broader failure to provide refugee youth with the tools to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society. However, it also presents a transformative opportunity: to reposition refugee education as a catalyst, not a cost, for development.

Secondary Education: A Critical Gap

Primary school enrollment for refugees has made modest gains in recent years. About 65% of refugee children attend primary school, according to the UNHCR’s 2024 Education Report. However, the transition to secondary school remains a significant challenge. Several key barriers block access:

  • Financial constraints, including tuition and ancillary costs.
  • Legal and documentation issues.
  • Language and curriculum barriers.
  • Gender-based obstacles, such as early marriage or caregiving roles.
  • Discrimination within host communities.

Financial challenges are particularly stark. Educating a refugee secondary student costs about 30% more than educating a national student. In low-income countries, the annual cost for a national student averages $181, compared to $244 for a refugee. Despite the higher costs, international funding models rarely account for this disparity. Refugee education remains tied to short-term humanitarian frameworks, often leaving adolescents stranded between basic literacy and real opportunity.

Higher Education: Breaking New Ground

If secondary education is the missing middle, higher education is the next frontier for refugee inclusion. In a webinar hosted by the University of Winchester, Daniel Mutanda, an academic and advocate for sanctuary initiatives, emphasized that access to higher education often depends on circumstances beyond refugees’ control. “in many places, too many places, restrictive regulations and limited resources prevent individuals from pursuing their educational aspirations, making access to higher education a matter of geographic luck rather than a guaranteed right,” Mutanda said.

Barriers include being categorized as international students, which makes tuition unaffordable and excludes them from public financial aid. Legal status also determines access to education and future stability.

Mutanda introduced the concept of the “higher education border,” a powerful framework that highlights how multiple layers of exclusion operate: from lack of recognized qualifications and language proficiency to bureaucratic barriers and systemic discrimination.

“for those seeking sanctuary, what would be a or what could be a smooth transition in their journey is riddled with complex barriers. So often, the experience people have is hope and ambition quickly turning into feelings of helplessness and despair,” he said, describing the experience of refugee youth denied access. “So common advice that we’ve heard, I’ve heard is just to wait until your immigration status changes, which effectively puts people’s lives on hold.”

Refugee-led advocacy movements are now shaping the future of higher education. Former Sanctuary Scholars are leading initiatives like the Universities of Sanctuary network and organizations such as the Tertiary Refugee Student Network, pushing for systemic reform on local, national and global stages. Their leadership aims to meet a bold target: achieving 15% enrollment of refugee youth in higher education by 2030.

Case Study: UNICEF’s Let Us Learn

Programs like UNICEF’s Let Us Learn offer successful models for scaling refugee education. Operating in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Liberia, Madagascar and Nepal, the program addresses barriers across early childhood, primary, secondary and vocational education. Accelerated education programs in Bangladesh achieved gains of up to 59 percentage points in core subject tests. In Nepal, more than 89% of girls enrolled in accelerated programs transitioned into formal secondary schools. The program emphasizes access, quality and retention, integrating community engagement, vocational skills training and flexible schooling models to support marginalized adolescents, particularly girls.

Toward a New Paradigm

To unlock the potential of refugees, the current education model must evolve. Key changes include:

  • Shift from short-term humanitarian funding to long-term development investment
  • Expand support beyond primary education, addressing secondary and tertiary levels
  • Institutionalize access rights, not just scholarships, for refugees
  • Center refugee voices in designing and evaluating education programs
  • Tailor solutions to national and community contexts

Moving Forward

Expanding access to education for displaced youth contributes to long-term resilience, workforce development and social inclusion. Supporting educational pathways, especially beyond the primary level, could enable individuals to participate meaningfully in rebuilding their communities and economies. As Daniel Mutanda said, “[Higher education] really provides an opportunity for them to flourish, whatever discipline they pursue, whatever sort of choice they make in terms of the subject area, it really gives them an opportunity to flourish.”

– Linnéa Matlack

Linnéa is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology 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