A new UNHCR-World Bank report highlights the “triple win” created when refugees are allowed to work: increased self-reliance, reduced dependency on aid, and economically strengthened host communities.
At the end of September 2024, world leaders are coming together in New York City to convene a variety of high-level events. Between 22-23 September, the Summit of the Future will take place, which has been described as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to mend eroded trust and demonstrate that international cooperation can effectively tackle emerging threats as well as opportunities.
In today’s interconnected world, the ability to prove one’s identity isn’t just a legal formality—it’s a fundamental human right that unlocks access to a wide range of services and opportunities. For many, having a birth certificate or an ID card is something easily taken for granted. But for migrants, refugees, and stateless people, legal recognition is crucial for securing rights and accessing essential services. This is where Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) systems play a pivotal role, ensuring that every person is recognized under the law, regardless of their circumstances.
Effectively integrating refugees and migrants in labour markets boosts productivity, increases the availability of skilled workers, and drives economic growth.
The East African country of Burundi currently hosts 300,000 forcibly displaced and stateless people. This includes 85,000 refugees and asylum-seekers, 25,000 internally displaced persons, 800 people at risk of statelessness. At the same time, UNHCR repatriated over 185,000 Burundian refugee returnees since September 2017. The UN Refugee Agency’s involvement in the country focuses particularly on providing assistance and protection for these populations as well as promoting their inclusion in national systems, enhancing their self-sufficiency, and supporting durable solutions, such as integration or resettlement.
With the average length of displacement ranging from 10 to over 20 years, there is an urgent need to protect and serve refugee children by including them in national education systems.
At the heart of the JDC’s efforts, we are supporting policy change informed by research using high-quality data gathered according to recognized standards and definitions.
The pathway towards the inclusion of refugees, IDPs, and stateless persons in national systems starts with mainstreaming them into national statistics exercises. But more is needed. Experience shows these populations need champions to ensure their inclusion in national development plans.
To include refugees sustainably and effectively, there must be a well-supported health system capable of meeting the needs of refugees and host communities.