Cities Learning Together Creating the conditions for the successful integration of displaced people into their host community

Over the last two decades, it has increasingly become recognised that forced migrants and refugees tend to relocate to urban areas and utilise the opportunities available there. People in developing countries, forcefully displaced from their rural homes due to conflict or environmental reasons, see better opportunities for shelter and livelihoods in nearby cities. Additionally, the rising number of refugees in urban areas within the Global South is equalled or even surpassed by the number of IDPs who are making similar journeys to cities. Contrary to the previous notion that only major cities are influenced by these patterns, there is now evidence indicating that secondary cities and regional urban areas are also hosting a growing proportion of refugees and other displaced persons, including those uprooted due to the climate crisis.
Various effective practices at the municipal level exist across multiple domains, including local leadership, social integration, employment, labour market inclusion, education, and refugee involvement. Municipal and regional authorities are keenly interested in coordinating comprehensive strategies for addressing forced displacement, particularly when these efforts are synchronized with other levels and sectors of government. It is crucial to examine not only the city-level context, but also the interconnected relationships of cities within districts, regions, and ultimately nations. In each instance, the internal political dynamics significantly shape how municipalities react to displaced populations.
This session will explore how municipalities can enhance their effectiveness through several strategic approaches: Capacity building is crucial, involving the provision of training and resources to strengthen municipal authorities in efficient planning, management, and service delivery. Collaboration forms another vital aspect; partnerships with other local, national, and regional authorities, international organisations, NGOs, and the private sector can offer both funding and expertise for municipal projects. Local revenue generation is key, as strategies to create income through property taxes, fees, and other sources sustain municipal initiatives. Transparent governance practices are central to earning public trust and attracting investments. Infrastructure development, including the establishment and maintenance of essential facilities, will enhance overall quality of life. Ensuring community participation in decision-making processes aligns initiatives with local needs. Finally, encouraging municipal authorities to leverage data and use technology to do so will optimize adequate response to displaced people and host communities. Finally, the facilitation of local partnerships and dialogues among diverse city stakeholders and relevant national actors to jointly devise contextually relevant approaches for improved local forced migration management will aim at promoting social cohesion and conflict prevention.