Promoting the participation of vulnerable displaced people and the local population in the South Caucasus

Context

Conflicts in the South Caucasus have displaced hundreds of thousands of people within the region. Many of them are poor and socially marginalised. Contributing factors include uprooting, poor housing, unfinished education, and limited access to employment and social services. At the same time, many displaced people find it difficult to find a balance between their place of origin and integration.

Objective

The economic and social participation of vulnerable displaced people and the local population in the South Caucasus has improved.

Approach

The project works in the following five fields of activity to achieve its objective:

• It supports state and non-state actors in improving their services. This includes preparing a national integration strategy (Armenia), improving career guidance for students (Azerbaijan) and improving bus timetables to meet the needs of women and families (Georgia).
• It promotes income opportunities for vulnerable displaced people and the local population, for example through training geared to the needs of the target groups.
• It enhances economic prospects and the involvement of women in economic life. For example, it improves networks and promotes women in non-traditional occupations.
• The project supports social participation opportunities for the target groups by fostering community-based initiatives and self-advocacy organisations.
• It contributes to developing dialogue among state and non-state actors, vulnerable displaced people and the local population. It supports the dialogue processes, for example through training on communication, conflict management skills and constructive collaboration.

On a broader level, the project promotes the participation and empowerment of women and young people, and integrates people with disabilities.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the project supported more than 117,000 people.

Last update: October 2024