2024 Online Summer Workshop Series on Forced Migration in Africa Wraps Up with Proposed Solutions to Regional Challenges
In a culmination of collaborative efforts and insightful discussions, the 2024 Online Summer Workshop Series on Forced Migration in Africa concluded with a promising array of proposed solutions to regional challenges.
The series, which brought together experts and practitioners from across the globe, provided a platform to delve into the complex dynamics of forced migration and explore innovative approaches to address them. Throughout the sessions, participants engaged in robust dialogue, sharing expertise and experiences to develop strategies to promote protection and solutions for displaced people in the region.
The final session focused on “New’ Regionalism, Transnationalism, and the Search for Solutions.” As part of the presentations, Dr. Abebaw Minaye, an Associate Professor in Social Psychology and currently the Chair of the Forced Displacement and Migration Studies Center at Addis Ababa University’s College of Education and Behavioral, presented "The Role of Regional Economic Communities in Promoting Protection and Solutions to Forced Migrants: The Case of IGAD."
He highlighted the significant vulnerability of the Horn of Africa to forced displacement due to climate change and conflict. "Regional collaboration is essential," Dr. Minaye stated, "as it enables the pooling of resources and expertise to address these complex challenges effectively." He emphasized the critical role of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in fostering cooperation among member states to enhance protection mechanisms and sustainable solutions for displaced people.
Delivering on the Encampment Policies and Durable Solutions in Kenya, Dr. Hanno Brankamp, an Assistant Professor (Research) in the Department of Geography at Durham University, discussed the evolution of Kenya's encampment policies in his presentation titled "Road to Durable Solution? Encampment and the New 'Shirika' Plan in Kenya."
The political and development geographer interested in the spatial politics of migration, displacement, and humanitarianism analyzed the shift from a liberal refugee policy to a more restrictive encampment-focused approach, notably the recent "Shirika" plan. "Kenya's encampment policies have long been criticized for their restrictive nature," Dr. Brankamp noted. "The Shirika plan represents a significant move towards development-oriented approaches, promoting socio-economic integration and self-reliance among refugees." He elaborated on the challenges and potential of this plan in transforming refugee management in Kenya.
Meanwhile, Mr. Jean Marie Ishimwe, a prominent advocate for refugee rights in the Eastern parts of Africa based in Kenya, presented "Refugee Leadership and the Meaningful Participation of Refugees in Sustainable Decision Making." Mr. Ishimwe underscored the importance of involving refugees in all policy development and implementation stages. "Refugees must be seen as equal partners, not merely beneficiaries," he argued. "Meaningful participation ensures that the solutions are sustainable and tailored to the actual needs of the displaced communities." Ishimwe highlighted successful examples of refugee-led initiatives and called for increased support and recognition of refugee leadership.
During the discussion segment of the session, Dr. Lucy Hovil, a social researcher and a widely published global expert on issues related to displacement and forced migration serving as the discussant, provided critical reflections on the presentations.
The Partner at Expectation State emphasized the interconnectedness of regional and global migration challenges and the need for cohesive policies. "We must bridge the gap between local realities and international frameworks to create effective solutions," Dr. Hovil remarked.
Dr. Catherine K. Musuva, who chaired the session, facilitated a dynamic discussion among the participants, encouraging them to share their experiences and insights. "Our collective efforts are crucial in addressing the evolving patterns of forced migration," Dr. Musuva concluded. "Only through collaboration can we hope to achieve lasting solutions."
The session provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of forced migration in Africa, highlighting both the progress and the remaining challenges. The emphasis on regional economic communities, such as IGAD, showcased the potential of collaborative approaches in tackling displacement issues. The focus on Kenya's new encampment policies and the push for refugee self-reliance indicated a shift towards more sustainable and humane refugee management practices.
The call for meaningful refugee participation underscored a significant paradigm shift in how policies should be crafted and implemented, and by integrating the voices of those directly affected, policymakers can develop more effective and just solutions.
As the Refocus Workshop Series concluded, it was clear that continued dialogue and cooperation among various stakeholders are essential. The insights gained from these sessions will inform future strategies and initiatives aiming to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for displaced people in Africa.
The Refocus Workshop Series has laid a strong foundation for future efforts to address forced migration in Africa by bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering a collaborative environment. The innovative solutions and strategies discussed during the sessions offer a roadmap for creating more resilient and inclusive communities in the face of ongoing displacement challenges.