PARTNER PUBLICATIONS
Identifying Barriers and Opportunities to Labor Mobility Pathways
Given the persistent lack of durable options for most of Syria’s displaced, complementary pathways to resettlement have become an increasingly core component of holistic policy and advocacy responses on behalf of Syrian refugees. One of the complementary pathways being explored for its potential to facilitate the achievement of durable solutions for refugees is that of labor mobility. Most skilled migration pathways were not designed with refugee circumstances in mind and as a result, block the majority of refugees from accessing them. This means countries are deprived of much needed human capital in growth sectors, while refugees are prevented from using their skills as a solution to their protracted displacement.
This study intends to help fill this research gap by evaluating the intersectional systemic barriers experienced by refugees in the context of labor migration and complementary pathways in Jordan and Lebanon. It outlines the challenges that Syrian refugees, in particular, face at different stages of the labor mobility process while based in Jordan and Lebanon. It then presents a case study that highlights some of the solutions developed to overcome identified barriers and outlines recommendations for overcoming host country barriers directed to NGOs in Jordan and Lebanon, UNHCR, Third Countries, the Governments of Jordan and Lebanon, and international donors.
Regional
Key findings of child marriages in KRI in humanitarian settings
The Iraq section of a regional report on Child Marriage in Humanitarian Settings in the Arab States Region that focuses on the Kurdish Region of Iraq was supported through the partnership between RDPP and UNFPA. The report examines the prevalence of and risk factors associated with child marriage, as well as the impact of conflict and displacement on child marriage norms and trends. In KRI specifically, the report found the highest prevalence of child marriage among the internally displaced (IDPs) compared to other population groups, and identifies low education of heads of household and economic insecurity as key child marriage determinants. The report also notes various gender norms and practices that are grounded in gender discrimination and decreased decision making power for girls, which in turn in many instances leads to serious mental health consequences.
Iraq
SHARED LIVELIHOODS SERVICES AS A PATHWAY TOWARDS INTEGRATION IN THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
With the Syrian context heading into its eleventh year, durable solutions remain elusive for Syrian refugees in the region. In light of the increasingly protracted displacement they face, this research report from the Durable Solutions Platform examines whether, and in what ways, shared livelihoods services have and can contribute to better integration outcomes for Syrian refugees, internally displaced people (IDPs) and host communities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI).
Iraq
A BRIDGE TO FIRMER GROUND: LEARNING FROM INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES TO SUPPORT PATHWAYS TO SOLUTIONS IN THE SYRIAN REFUGEE CONTEXT
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1sZGzT2ZoThcq30RQA-HPX3DMUs6kC3QQ
Regional
The Impact of COVID-19 on Child Labor in Jordan
The position paper from Tamkeen for Legal Aid and Human Rights explores the relationship between education and child labour in Jordan and the impact that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on both. It highlights the causality between accessible education and child labour and describes how the lack of regular schooling and the deteriorating economic situation have contributed to increased instances of child labour in Jordan. The paper also outlines how the shift towards online schooling has resulted in decreased access to quality education either through students’ inability to participate or by decreased requirements placed by teachers on students, which demotivates the latter from participating and contributing adequately. Although the deteriorating economic situation has been the primary driver of increased instances of child labour, the lack of regular engagement in meaningful education has created additional, possibly irreversible pull factors.
Jordan
Comprehensive Market System Assessments for Improved Employment Lebanon
The assessment presents an in-depth analysis of 3 value chains, focusing on the demand, key challenges, opportunities, needs and profiling of all market system players. Targeted recommendations to each key player are provided for each value chain, with the overall objective to propose interventions aiming at expanding jobs and incomes to reduce child labour in selected areas in North Lebanon.
Lebanon
Syria Analytical Framework
The Syria Analytical Framework, a new tool that can be used, in whole or in part, by organizations wishing to bring a greater durable solutions lens to their research, programming, and M&E. It is grounded in the IASC Framework on Durable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons, the UNHCR Comprehensive Protection and Solutions Strategy (“Protection Thresholds”), and durable solutions frameworks developed in other displacement contexts. Potential applications include contributing a durable solutions perspective to program identification, design, implementation, and evaluation, as well as research design, data collection, analysis, and dissemination. This framework was jointly created by DSP, HNAP, DRC, NRC, REACH, Action Against Hunger, and Save the Children.
Lebanon
“Pinning down moving targets”: Adapting humanitarian cash programmes to the multi-pronged crises in Lebanon
This research report and note produced by the Durable Solutions Platform and CAMEALEON assesses collective learning and decision-making on the adaptations of selected multi-purpose cash and protection cash programmes in Lebanon in light of the economic challenges and COVID-19 response from late 2019 until mid-2020. It lays out the key adaptations made to cash programmes, the conditions that enabled or impeded these adaptations, the challenges and opportunities for accountability and inclusion of beneficiary feedback, before outlining key priorities and next steps for cash programming in Lebanon. With the majority of Syrian refugees in Lebanon having no viable prospect for a durable solution to end their displacement in the near future, it is ever more critical to support displacement-affected people’s abilities to support themselves and plan for their future. While cash assistance by itself is not sufficient to enable an individual or household to become self-reliant, in the medium-term strategic linkages between agencies and sectors should be prioritized to ensure that assistance efforts can meet the multiplicity of people’s needs, that could be a springboard for supporting self-reliance.
Lebanon
Policy Brief - Improving Self-reliance and Resilience in Jordan: Lessons Learned from Livelihoods Interventions
The lessons learned presented in this paper are intended to spark a wider reflection and strategic dialogue on how livelihoods-focused policies and programs can better support resilience and self-reliance for Syrian refugees and host communities. This brief follows up on recent research conducted by the Durable Solutions Platform (DSP), in collaboration with Columbia University, on medium-term approaches to Syrian refugees’ protracted displacement in Jordan.
Regional
The Strategic Use of Resettlement : Lessons from the Syria Context
This research, produced by the Durable Solutions Platform (DSP), explores the Strategic Use of Resettlement (SUR) - the concept that resettlement programming can be levereged in strategic ways that can improve not only the lives of resettled refugees, but also refugees and citizens in refugee-hosting countries. The research uses the Syrian refugee contexts in Jordan and Lebanon as case studies to explore SUR, its benefits and potential drawbacks, as well as provides recommendations for resettlement actors wishing to better understand and implement this concept in their own programming.
Regional
Policy Brief - What Ways Forward for Protracted Displacement in Lebanon? A medium outlook for Syrian refugees and Lebanese host communities
This policy brief related to the research 'Addressing Protracted Displacement in Lebanon' explores medium-term approaches toward the refugee response in light of the protracted displacement of Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Led by the Durable Solutions Platform (DSP) and the Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (LCPS), the research's findings and recommendations are based on qualitative data, with an emphasis on Syrian refugee and Lebanese host community voices, and a participatory approach with key stakeholders, including Lebanese government officials, donor governments, international organizations and NGOs.
Lebanon
Addressing Protracted Displacement in Lebanon: A medium-term outlook for Syrian refugees and Lebanese host communities
In this report, the Durable Solutions Platform (DSP) and the Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (LCPS) reinforce the need for a two-pronged approach to address the protracted displacement of Syrians in Lebanon in the medium-term (3-5 years) and identify areas where such an approach may be strengthened.
The report draws on the perspectives of a combination of response actors, including UN agencies, INGOs, and NGOs, representatives of the Government of Lebanon, sectoral experts, as well as vulnerable Syrian refugees and Lebanese host communities at the local level. It explores four thematic areas of focus: legal protection, education, livelihoods, and social assistance. The research findings and recommendations presented in this study draw on an extensive literature review, 29 key informant interviews, 16 focus group discussions, and additional consultations.
Lebanon
Evaluation of Alternatives and Solutions for Child Marriage in Jordan
This policy paper includes the general framework for underage marriage in Jordan, its definition, causes, and social and psychological effects. The paper also tackles its legal framework for different religions through the provisional Personal Status law and its regulations; and finally, the paper offers recommendations and solutions for underage marriage in Jordan, and presents the view-points of different stakeholders including decision makers, Shariah judges, NGOs and national institutions.
Jordan, Middle East
In My Own Hands: A medium-term approach towards self-reliance and resilience of Syrian refugees and host communities in Jordan
In this research report funded by RDPP, the Durable Solution Platform (DSP) and the Programme on Forced Migration and Health (PMFH) at Columbia University explore lessons learned and ways forward for Syrian refugees' protracted displacement in Jordan. As current refugee assistance programs are adapting to address medium and longer term needs, this report explores how Syrian refugees' self-reliance can be fostered in a manner that promotes resilience and social cohesion with host communities. The report highlights some areas where strategic imvestments in policy and practice can be made to ensure that refugee access to education, livelihoods, and social assistance can be leveraged to elevate access and better lives for all.
The study includes a systematic review of existing literature, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions with 93 male and female respondents of working age from the Syrian refugee population and the vulnerable host Jordanian population.
Download the executive summary here.
Jordan, Middle East
Forced Migration Review (FMR)
The RDPP supported the publication of a special issue in the Forced Migration Review (FMR), Oxford University’s Refugee Studies Centre, dealing with protection and development-led strategies that face the displacement challenges in the region. The English edition was published in early September 2014, and according to FMR, the issue has been widely used by practitioners, analysts and policymakers.
Regional
Legal Challenges Faced by Refugees from Syria in Lebanon
Through CLDH Lebanon, the RDPP has supported the development of the report 'LEGAL CHALLENGES FACED BY REFUGEES FROM SYRIA IN LEBANON' which highlights the legal challenges faced by Syrian refugees in Lebanon and the related impact of the Government policies. The report, whose findings and recommendations were discussed among different stakeholders in Lebanon including international donors, legal actors, state representatives, civil society organizations and media, has been used by many protection stakeholders as reference
Lebanon
Shadow Report on Torture
The RDPP supported the development of the Shadow report on Torture through CLDH, which was submitted to the Committee Against Torture in relation to its examination of the initial report of Lebanon.
Lebanon
Survey on Perceptions of Syrian refugees in Lebanon
Through UNHCR, the RDPP supported the development of this research study on the perception of Syrian refugees in Lebanon carried out by Syrian and Lebanese students of Saint Joseph University in Beirut in 2015. The survey measures perceptions of safety among Syrian refugees and Lebanese host communities.
Lebanon
Jobs make the difference
The report on Expanding Economic Opportunities for Syrian Refugees and Host Communities in Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey and Syria explores how host governments, international actors, and private sector partners can both create new economic opportunities and expand access to existing economic opportunities. It examines the challenges impeding creation of and access to economic opportunities faced by host communities, Syrian refugees and IDPs, and entrepreneurs, and the approaches for overcoming those challenges. It is primarily based on interviews with representatives from business communities, governments, NGOs, donors and international organizations across Syria and its five refugee-hosting neighbours. Its findings are hoped to support efforts by host nations, the international donor community and the private sector to achieve the ambitious political goal of creating 1.1 million new jobs by 2018. The report, published in 2017, is made possible through a UNDP partnership with ILO and WFP, and with support from the RDPP.
Regional
Forced migration review issue 57
With 2018 marking the 7th anniversary of the Syrian conflict, this issue of FMR explores new insights and continuing challenges relating to the displacement of millions of Syrians both internally and in neighbouring countries. What we learn from responses to this large-scale, multi-faceted displacement is also relevant to other situations of displacement beyond as well as within the Middle East. FMR 57 contains 27 articles on ‘Syrians in displacement’, plus six ‘general’ articles on other topics.
Regional
Forced migration review edition 58: minifeature on Syrians in displacementwork and economies
RDPP continues the partnership with FMR to produce this minifeature focusing on Syrian displacement as a supplement to the full edition 58 on Economies: rights and access to work.
Regional
Tackling Child Labor among Syrian refugees and their host communities in Jordan and Lebanon
In the framework of ILO project : “Tackling Child Labor among Syrian refugees and their host communities in Jordan and Lebanon” funded by RDPP, ILO and FAO have developed a guide for practitioners working towards reducing child labour in agriculture in Lebanon., for example agricultural extension workers, labour inspectors, occupational safety and health inspectors, municipal police, social workers, and NGOs working with child labourers in rural areas. http://www.ilo.org/beirut/publications/WCMS_573165/lang--en/index.htm
Lebanon, Jordan
RDPP case study Europe’s Respense to displacement in the Middle East
As part of a number of case studies highlighted to complement the analysis of the Development Co-operation Report 2018: Joining forces to leave no one behind, RDPP is featured under “Europe’s Response to Displacement in the Middle East” (Case Study #31) The Development Co-operation Report 2018 is a source of knowledge on the multiple, mainstreamed, and targeted ways that vulnerable and marginalised people can benefit from sustainable development. It also addresses how international co-operation can play to its strength through policies, partnerships and evidence to leave no one behind.
Middle East
Access to Resettlement and Complementary Pathways for Syrian Refugees
Results from the 2017-2018 survey of Syrian refugees inside and outside camps This report was produced through a tripartite agreement between FAFO, the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and RDPP. Drawing on a survey implemented by the Department of Statistics (DoS) between November 2017 and January 2018, covering sample of 7,632 households and 40,950 individuals, the report presents statistics on Syrian refugees residing in Jordan covering demographic characteristics and a range of thematic areas such as household economy, housing, health, education, and labour force.
Jordan, Middle East
Access to Resettlement and Complementary Pathways for Syrian Refugees
This research was produced through the Durable Solutions Platform (DSP)*, with the support of RDPP. It aims to benefit all organisations involved with refugees, particularly in Jordan and the Middle East, through contributing information on the various complementary pathways that are currently available to Syrian refugees, and that enables them to achieve a durable solution. It also explores methods on how organisations can form networks and partnerships to further develop complementary pathways as viable means for sustainable solutions, while taking into consideration refugees’ perceptions towards resettlement and their perceived access, concerns, intentions and plans regarding their displacement. The research also identifies innovative and concrete recommendations that help design new State policies, NGO programming, and advocacy on resettlement and complementary pathways. Data collection was conducted between January and May 2018 and included desk research, 13 key informant interviews, and 8 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with 60 Syrian refugees in Jordan. The Durable Solutions Platform (DSP) is a joint initiative of the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC). The platform aims to generate knowledge that informs and inspires forward-thinking policy and practice on the long-term future of displaced Syrians
Jordan, Middle East
Far from Home: Future Prospects for Syrian Refugees in Iraq
This study was conducted through the Durable Solutions Platform (DSP) and IMPACT Initiatives, with the support of RDPP. It focuses on understanding the potential of Syrian refugees finding a durable solution in Iraq as conditions in Syria are not conducive for their voluntary return in safety and dignity. The study looks specifically at the potential for local integration in Iraq by assessing Syrian refugees’ progress towards local integration, the enabling and limiting factors impacting Syrian refugees’ ability to locally integrate, and Syrian refugees’ decision-making and long term preferred durable solution. Data collection was conducted in August 2018 through 413 household surveys, 11 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), 3 life stories, and 19 key informant interviews.
* The Durable Solutions Platform (DSP) is a joint initiative of the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC). The platform aims to generate knowledge that informs and inspires forward-thinking policy and practice on the long-term future of displaced Syrians
Iraq
Survey on Child Labour in Agriculture in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon: The Case of Syrian Refugees
Following a request by the Child Labour Unit at the Ministry of Labour in Lebanon, this report was conducted by the American University of Beirut (AUB), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and UNICEF, with the financial support of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), the UK Department for International Development (DFID), the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (BPRM), and the RDPP.
As one of the largest studies carried out on child labour in the Middle East, this report explores the experiences of child labour among Syrian refugees located near agricultural areas in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley. It is based on data collected on 12,708 refugees living in 1,902 informal tented settlements, and focuses on the conditions and experiences of working children, presenting data on demographics
Lebanon