Displacement and migration in the context of governance and peacebuilding
Displacement and migration pose challenges to policymakers, society and the economy. However, migration can also be an opportunity for development.
People leave their country of origin for a wide range of reasons, including war, violence, persecution for political or religious reasons, and better employment and training opportunities.
Displacement and migration are associated with major challenges - for the individuals affected, their countries of origin and the host countries. GIZ’s work around the world helps tackle these challenges and create long-term prospects for people and protect migrants and refugees rights.
Migration can also have positive impacts on economic and social development. Through its work, GIZ seeks to maximise these opportunities.
We pursue context-, conflict- and gender-sensitive as well as country- and region-specific approaches.
Empowering refugees and displaced people
Refugees and internally displaced persons are often traumatised by the displacement and violence they have experienced. To enable displaced persons to organise their everyday lives in a self-determined way, we focus our measures on mental health and psychosocial support.
Supporting host communities
GIZ supports communities that host displaced people, as they face the challenge of having to provide large numbers of additional residents with accommodation, food, and services. The new arrivals and the local population are addressed equally as the target group.
Supporting returnees
GIZ helps returnees to reintegrate economically, socially and politically. Its measures address not only the returnees themselves, but also the local population. Returnees should have the opportunity to participate in all areas of life and to build a future.
Advice to policy makers
Migration and displacement require political responses and a reliable framework. GIZ supports governments, institutions and local authorities in developing a statutory, political and social framework for integrating migrants, protecting refugees and offering asylum. In so doing, GIZ makes sure it does not exacerbate existing conflicts.
GIZ’s policy advice is based on human rights and on the principle of gender equality. It strengthens the rights of those affected and emphasises the obligations of the states involved to protect the rights of migrants and refugees: These obligations derive from international human rights conventions and the Geneva Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
