Forging a Brighter Future for Refugees and Host Communities
The global refugee crisis is a complex challenge, demanding a multifaceted response. While traditional public sector-led humanitarian efforts remain crucial, the private sector's unique strengths can unlock innovative solutions that empower refugees to rebuild their lives.
As the world turns its attention to the Global Refugee Forum this week in Geneva, Switzerland, we share stories that showcase the valuable role that the private sector can play. From a housing and employment program in Brazil, to a vibrant business environment in Kenya’s Kakuma refugee camp, and a transformative incubation program in the Levant region, businesses can help forge a more inclusive and hopeful future for refugees and host communities alike.
We also feature new research from IFC and the World Trade Organization that highlights how increasing access to affordable trade finance instruments in Southeast Asia’s Mekong region can boost intra-regional and global trade.
Wishing you Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year!
-- The Editors
Hundreds of thousands of refugees and migrants from Latin America, the Caribbean, and around the world are reestablishing themselves in Brazil. An innovative housing and employment program in São Paulo, implemented with private sector support, offers a model for inclusion.
“Having this job gives me a deep sense of satisfaction. To be part of bringing this building back to life for other refugees to live in is more than I could have imagined,” says Javier Muñoz Mata, a beneficiary of the program.
Commercial investments in Kenya's refugee camp reflect its complex and vibrant economy. Read More
StartMashreq's incubation program is shaping a “startup ecosystem” in Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon. Read more | بالعربية
IFC Explained: What is the Global Refugee Crisis?
With global conflicts causing record levels of forced displacement, the world is grappling with a complex refugee crisis. Can the private sector offer sustainable, long-term solutions? Watch IFC Explained with Hawa Seydou DIOP to learn more.
IFC AUDIO STORIES
In this episode of IFC Audio Stories, host Lindelwa M. explores the growing global displacement crisis with Michel BOTZUNG , Head of the IFC- UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency Joint Initiative.
NEW RESEARCH
A new IFC and World Trade Organization report explores trade finance in the fast-growing markets in Cambodia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and Viet Nam, offering solutions that could increase trade in goods by $58 billion a year. Read more
WHAT'S ON THE HORIZON
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Attend these events:
Location: Geneva, Switzerland | Event Date: December 13-15
Location: Davos, Switzerland | Event Date: January 15-19
Location: San Francisco, California | Event Date: February 5-6
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Event Date: February 12-14
Location: Phoenix, Arizona | Event Date: February 12–14
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida | Event Date: February 13–15
JOB OPENINGS
To learn more about jobs at IFC, visit www.ifc.org/careers and sign up for our “job alerts” to receive job opportunities in real time. Here are some of the openings:
Location: Mexico City, Mexico | Deadline: December 15
Location: Washington, DC | Deadline: December 15
Location: New Delhi, India | Deadline: December 21
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka | Deadline: December 21
Location: Washington, DC | Deadline: December 27
Location: Washington, DC | Deadline: December 30
Thank you for reading IFC Insights. Send your feedback to ifc_insights@ifc.org.
IFC INSIGHTS EDITORIAL TEAM
Chance Barnett , Brian Beary , Lee-Roy Chetty , Moussoukoro Diop , Bukola Ogunyemi , Isabelle Poupaert , Nataliya Radchenko , Bassam Sebti , Daisy Serem , Gavin Thorpe , Vinit Tyagi , and Chris Vellacott .
A special thank you to our guest contributors Sara Aggour , Alison Buckholtz , Maria Kristina Galang , Jason Hopps , Lindelwa M. , and Paula Rogo .
Multifaceted Research Analyst, Community Development Specialist, Climate Activist, Chemical Engineer, Advocacy for Social Justice, Well-being and Sustainable Solutions
1yI believe that the private sector has a crucial role to play in addressing the global refugee crisis. By investing in initiatives that promote economic empowerment and entrepreneurship, businesses can help refugees rebuild their lives and contribute to the growth of host communities. The stories from Brazil, Kenya and the Levant region are just a few examples of how businesses are making a positive impact on the lives of refugees. #IFCinsights
Vice-president/ Operational Manager Okin Group
1ySend a DM now!!!
Infrastructure Finance Enthusiast| Building Prosperity Through Sustainable Development | Future of Lagos Thought Leader
1yinsightful and deeply enriching , putting lasting smiles on the millions of people round the world well done