Displaced Populations and their Resilience

This research sought to ascertain how the concept of resilience can be a useful tool to engage policy makers, humanitarian and development aid professionals as well as local community members and leaders, on innovative and forward thinking ways to address the complex health and social problems in marginalized / displaced communities.

Six relevant themes emerged from the research, including the importance of basic health care, shelter, respect, livelihood innovation, role of values, family and spirituality and psychosocial welfare. Focus groups and one-on-one discussions, with men and women in professional and community roles emphasized the importance of leveraging both external and internal resources around these themes. Of critical importance was the overwhelming emphasis by the respondents on “being heard” and respected as well as the significance of shelter as a source of informal income.

While funding for psychosocial support and wellbeing would be beneficial, the role of grassroots community-led informal social networks as a source of great strength for the community should not be overlooked. Though funding should be targeted at basic health care, psychosocial programs and counseling for persons affected by displacement and violence, existing community forums, resources and “spaces” should be leveraged and strengthened.