Supporting the Integration of Refugees in Cities

The majority of refugees worldwide live in urban areas. It is often assumed that these urban-based refugees are self-reliant, and therefore no longer need support from donors and other humanitarian actors.

Certainly, there are many benefits to refugees living in urban areas. Some of the fastest growing cities are in low- and middle-income countries, many of which also host large numbers of refugees. Such growth brings opportunities for employment and access to services. However, laws and policies constraining refugees’ access to work and freedom of movement or opportunities outside camps can constrain their ability to realize such benefits. Humanitarian actors also find it difficult to provide access to services and social networks in urban areas: refugees present in cities are often spread out and highly mobile, and actors are less coordinated in urban areas than refugee camps and settlements.

In this event, participants will hear from donors, implementers, research organisations, city authorities and refugees themselves about the challenges that urban-based refugees face and additional support they require to access services. The event will explore innovative examples of projects; investments and integrated people-centered approaches to support urban-based refugees, including the impact that this support has had on refugee outcomes. In doing so, this event is integrally linked to several SDGs, including decent work and economic growth (8); reduced inequalities (10); and sustainable cities and communities (11).