Lessons from Niger's Opportunity Villages: A Model for Migration and Integration
In the heart of Niger, Garin Kaka and two other "opportunity villages" are redefining the narrative of migration and integration. These villages, born from a partnership between the UN Refugee Agency, the Niger government, and local leaders, provide an alternative to traditional refugee camps, demonstrating that the journey from displacement to integration is not only possible but also immensely enriching. In Garin Kaka, Nigerian refugees and local residents are not merely coexisting but thriving, transcending borders and forging deep connections....
November Press Review
International There are no better experts on refugees than refugees: Nhial Deng on why politicians need to listen The Guardian, 9 October 2023 That day was the start of an incredible journey for Deng, which culminated in him receiving a prestigious prize during the United Nations general assembly last month that recognised his work over the past 14 years in helping other refugees. Deng was born in Ethiopia, where his...
“Still Fit for Purpose” – The 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
Sudan, Niger, DRC, Ukraine/Russia, Israel/Palestine, the list is endless. The world is witnessing unprecedented levels of international and non-international armed conflicts across the globe; resulting in ongoing internal displacement of populations and mobility across borders as people search for refuge and protection no longer guaranteed in their homelands. + Now more than ever, individual citizens and activists must stand up for rights of asylum seekers and refugees; people who are being forced to leave their...
Paddling aganist the wind: Climate refugees
When Robin Wall Kimmerer spoke recently at the New York Times Events about Paddling against the Wind, she was speaking of climate refugees: she was speaking of snapping turtles laying their leathery eggs on a volleyball court because the familiar nesting grounds had been flooded. When snapping turtles seem to speak of perilous changes in the world that threaten their life cycle, it is awesome, poetic – even cute, to take notice. We stop, we listen to...
Exploring Youth Work Practice and the Mobility of Young People
Photo is by the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town The journey of young migrants into South Africa is one defined by challenges, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life. At the heart of this journey is the vital link between youth work practice and the mobility of these young people. “Strengthening Youth Work Practice for Children on the Move in South Africa,” published by the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town, is an invaluable resource that offers powerful insights into...
Migration and Mental Health
Photo by Total_Shape on Pixabay Mental health is important for every individual at every stage of life, from childhood to adulthood, however, many people tend to ignore issues of mental health unless there are serious symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2023) mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress,...
