At the end of 2020, there were more than 82 million people forcibly displaced. Looking at current events in the world today and migration projections, the number of people forcibly displaced is likely to increase.
Based on what you have learned throughout this unit, what challenges will these migrants face? Where are they likely to end up settling? What effects are facing the sending and receiving countries? Conclude by brainstorming ways to help face the growing number of refugees and forcibly displaced people.
The challenges that migrants will face include the lack of legal protection and access to basic services, such as healthcare, education, and housing. They may also face discrimination, xenophobia, and social integration difficulties in the receiving countries. Moreover, these migrants may experience trauma, physical and mental health issues, and separation from their families.
The settlement locations for forcibly displaced people may vary, but often migrants end up in neighboring countries or regions within their own country. These areas may already be struggling with economic and social challenges, making it difficult to provide adequate support for the incoming population.
The sending countries often face the loss of skilled workers, known as brain drain, which affects the economy and development. These countries may also suffer from instability due to conflict, political unrest, or environmental factors that lead to displacement. On the other hand, receiving countries experience challenges in terms of increased strain on resources, strained infrastructure, and potential social tensions due to cultural differences and competition for jobs.
To address the growing number of refugees and forcibly displaced people, stakeholders should consider several approaches:
1. Enhancing international cooperation: Countries need to work together to support displaced populations, share the burden, and develop comprehensive solutions. This includes providing financial assistance, capacity building, and sharing best practices.
2. Strengthening legal protection: International agreements should be reinforced to protect migrants' rights, promote their access to healthcare, education, and legal channels for seeking asylum, and prevent their exploitation.
3. Supporting host communities: Providing financial and technical assistance to the communities hosting forcibly displaced people can alleviate the strain on local resources and foster social cohesion.
4. Promoting sustainable development: Investing in the economic development and stability of sending countries can address the root causes of displacement and reduce the need for people to flee their homes.
5. Empowering displaced populations: Equipping migrants with skills, education, and resources to rebuild their lives can help them become self-reliant and contribute positively to their host countries and their home communities in the future.
6. Raising awareness and fostering empathy: Education and public awareness campaigns can help reduce prejudice, discrimination, and xenophobia towards forcibly displaced people, thus facilitating their integration and improving social harmony.
Overall, addressing the challenges faced by migrants and finding sustainable solutions require a holistic, inclusive, and collaborative approach from governments, international organizations, civil society, and individuals.