The International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a new brief marking World Humanitarian Day, underscoring that stronger collaboration between humanitarian agencies and development actors is essential to integrating refugees into national social protection systems. Titled Social protection and forced displacement – Lessons learned from a decade of ILO operations, the brief draws on ten years of experience and provides practical recommendations for improving refugee access to income security, healthcare, and other essential services while supporting social cohesion.
The brief comes at a time when the global humanitarian system is under immense pressure. By capturing lessons from past cooperation with humanitarian actors, the ILO stresses the need to transition from fragmented emergency responses to rights-based, universal social protection systems. It highlights that equality of treatment for both nationals and non-nationals can strengthen the links between humanitarian, peace, and development efforts.
Forced displacement is increasing worldwide due to conflicts, violence, natural disasters, and the climate crisis. In response, the ILO emphasizes that solutions must be grounded in human rights, ensuring that refugees and displaced persons can access essential protections. Social protection is defined as a fundamental human right, and social health protection is noted as a particularly effective entry point because it aligns with public health priorities while supporting broader integration into national systems. The brief advocates a twin-track approach that combines strengthening national systems with the direct inclusion of displaced populations.
Successful inclusion strategies rely heavily on partnerships. The ILO contributes technical expertise and international standards, while humanitarian organizations offer direct access and community knowledge. These synergies are further supported by new UN Common Principles that align with the Humanitarian-Peace-Development Nexus, reinforcing the framework for collaboration.
The brief also stresses the importance of linking social protection with livelihood programmes, enabling displaced persons not only to secure benefits but also to improve employment opportunities, income, and overall resilience. To achieve sustainable results, long-term financing, strong advocacy, and coordination of domestic and international resources are vital.
Reaffirming its commitment, the ILO pledges to continue supporting countries in expanding social protection coverage to refugees and host communities alike, moving towards universal systems that ensure no one is left behind.
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