On Monday, World Refugee Day marked the start of Refugee Week (20-26th June) – a UK-wide festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Read on to learn more about a partnership between Comic Relief and Jersey Overseas Aid which has helped support some of the two billion people who lack access to formal financial services.
Today, there are over 100 million forcibly displaced people in the world. NaTakallam, a social enterprise, is disrupting the way we typically think of humanitarianism, language learning and international development. By being the bridge to the private sector, NaTakallam provides vital work opportunities for refugees and conflict-affected individuals, including in Ukraine.
It’s just over a month since Russia invaded Ukraine and close to 3,000 civilians have been killed, with the figure feared to be much higher. Over 10 million and counting have been forcibly displaced. As Russia evolves its military strategy, we need to adapt to the new challenges and needs.
While much has been done by the business community in response to the Ukraine crisis, much more is needed, and this must start with a better understanding of the needs of the most vulnerable people and communities. This article provides insights into understanding who the vulnerable are and advice on actions that businesses can take, along with useful links.
In the early hours of 24 February, Russian forces launched an attack on Ukraine. Business Fights Poverty and Crown Agents immediately launched a Rapid Response to meet emergency needs. Hundreds of Ukrainians have been killed with thousands more wounded, while over a million refugees have already fled the country. Find out how you can help.
As the humanitarian landscape changes and COVID-19, with its associated economic turbulence accelerates need, business has a key role to play in supporting the livelihoods of refugees. The Business Refugee Action Network (BRAN) has explored the implementation of new, business-led approaches to employing refugees and reflected on the impact of COVID-19.
LGBTQ refugees and asylum seekers around the world are fleeing their home countries due to life-threatening persecution and violence. To help LGBTQ refugees integrate into their new communities and prepare for the job market, global businesses collectively committed to provide mentorship opportunities to approximately 1,250 LGBTQ refugees in North America over the next three years.
On 16 September, the Business Refugee Action Network (BRAN) released its Business Takes a Stand for Refugees Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Statement and called on governments to include refugees in the SDGs, support them in the wake of COVID-19 and call out the racism and xenophobia they face. Daphne Jayasinghe reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on refugees’ economic inclusion and the role of business in ensuring refugees are not left behind.
