Improving the income situation of internally displaced persons, refugees and the host population in Mali

Context

Since 2012, extremist violence and organised crime have been increasing in northern Mali. The number of attacks and violent clashes has also been increasing in the centre of the country since 2018. Coupled with growing ethnic conflict, this has repeatedly led to mass refugee movements.

The ongoing flight and displacement place a major burden on the host families and promote conflicts over access to basic resources and water. Humanitarian aid only has a selective impact and doesn’t offer any resilience in the long term.

On top of this, the employment rate among internally displaced persons and refugees is low. A relatively low level of education in comparison to the host population, and insufficient employment and training opportunities on the formal and informal labour market, further exacerbate this problem.

Internally displaced persons and refugees often suffer from the trauma and the physical and psychological consequences of the violence they have suffered during their forced displacement. The solidarity of the host communities is important for promoting social cohesion. There is an urgent need to assist governmental structures in supporting internally displaced persons and refugees in order to improve their socio-economic participation and to promote social cohesion within and between the various groups.

Objective

The socio-economic participation of internally displaced persons, refugees and the vulnerable population in selected host communities in the Kayes, Ségou, Mopti, Gao and greater Bamako areas has improved.

Approach

The project Strengthening the Socio-economic Participation of Internally Displaced Persons, Refugees and the Vulnerable Host Population in Mali (PAPSE) aims to improve access to vocational and social training measures for the target groups. 

It focuses on improving access to income opportunities by improving offers available to those starting up companies. In addition, the project strives to enhance the performance of cooperative arrangements that either exist already or received support when they were established. Close cooperation with the local private sector improves the transition from vocational training measures to formal or informal employment, such as internships and on-the-job training, thus also improving access to income. 

However, this can only be achieved in the long term if the social interaction among the target groups is strengthened. Social cohesion within and between the target groups is improved, for example, by strengthening the capabilities of the communities. This makes it possible to deal with conflicts constructively while promoting social networks, mutual trust and a sense of belonging.

The integrative approach to improving vocational qualifications and adjusting income promotion to the target groups has a positive impact on economic trading relationships. In addition, confidence-building measures, workable conflict resolution and the promotion of social networks increase the willingness of the target groups to invest in trade with one another in goods and services.

Last update: March 2024