Enabling Self-Reliance

From self-reliance to thriving socio-economy​

Self-reliance for refugees involves equipping them with the necessary skills, resources, and knowledge to survive and prosper without relying on humanitarian aid, both in the short and long term. This entails empowering them with access to education, training, and employment opportunities, as well as supporting the development of community-based programs that promote self-sufficiency. Ultimately, the success of self-reliance initiatives is determined by refugees’ ability to achieve self-sufficiency and lead fulfilling lives without continued reliance on humanitarian aid. 

UNHCR’s defines of self-reliance as ​[22]​ 

“The social and economic ability of an individual, a household or a community to meet essential needs (including protection, food, water, shelter, personal safety, health and education) in a sustainable manner and with dignity” 

And, recognising that this can be supported by ​[22]​ 

“Developing and strengthening livelihoods of persons of concern, and reducing their vulnerability and long-term reliance on humanitarian/ external assistance”. 

The goal of self-reliance initiatives is not only to meet the immediate needs of refugees but also to help them build sustainable futures for themselves and their families through a variety of market-based opportunities. This can include providing access to education, training, and employment opportunities, as well as supporting the development of community-based programs that promote self-sufficiency.  

A study on the employment outcomes of refugees showed that in most high-income countries less than 20% of refugees gain employment in the first two years​ [23]​.  

The framework

The factors that shape the ability of individuals, households, and communities to meet their socio-economic needs independently, including through income-generating activities is multidimensional. Those factors will need to be supported by the international aid. Self-reliance initiatives need to encompass: 

  • Access to Education and Skills Training: Education and skills training can help refugees develop the skills and knowledge necessary to find employment or start their own businesses. Self-reliance initiatives can provide access to education and skills training programs that can help refugees acquire the skills needed to become self-sufficient. 
  • Entrepreneurship and Microfinance: Starting a small business can be a great way for refugees to become self-reliant. Self-reliance initiatives can provide refugees with the resources and support needed to start their own businesses, such as access to microfinance and business training programs. 
  • Job Placement Programmes: Self-reliance initiatives can work with local employers to create job placement programs for refugees. These programs can help refugees find employment that matches their skills and experience, providing them with a source of income and helping them to become self-sufficient. 
  • Community Development Programs: Self-reliance initiatives can also work with refugee communities to develop community-based programs that support self-sufficiency. These programs can include things like community gardens, vocational training programs, and other initiatives that help refugees develop the skills and resources needed to become self-sufficient. 
  • Access to Basic Needs: Access to basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare are essential for refugees to become self-reliant. Self-reliance initiatives can work to provide access to these basic needs, ensuring that refugees have the resources they need to take control of their own lives and become self-sufficient. 
  • Legal and Social Environment: Providing access to legal and social resources enables refugees to feel confident and empowered to speak up when their rights are violated without fear of being prosecuted.