UN Agencies Launch National Strategy to Address Internal Displacement and Poverty in Ethiopia

IOM, UNDP, and UNHCR Warn that Conflict, Climate Shocks, and Displacement Threaten Ethiopia’s Development Gains, Urging a Shift from Humanitarian Aid to Long-Term Recovery and Development.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have joined forces to warn that the growing internal displacement in Ethiopia, driven by conflict, climate shocks, and other crises, is reversing the country’s hard-won development gains and exacerbating poverty. In a joint statement, the agencies emphasized that humanitarian aid alone is not enough to address the root causes of displacement and the long-term needs of affected populations.

Between November 11-13, the three agencies convened in Addis Ababa for a crucial meeting, unveiling a new national strategy aimed at addressing both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term development goals. The strategy focuses on strengthening government-led peacebuilding and development efforts and includes contributions from UN Assistant Secretary-Generals Ugochi Daniels (IOM), Shoko Noda (UNDP), and Raouf Mazou (UNHCR).

While Ethiopia has made remarkable progress in reducing poverty, lifting 15 million people out of poverty in recent years, setbacks from COVID-19, conflict, and climate-related disasters, including droughts and floods, have hindered the country’s recovery. These crises have left many displaced Ethiopians without access to essential services, livelihoods, and protection.

Shoko Noda, UNDP Crisis Bureau Director, stated, “The plight of internally displaced people in Ethiopia is not a humanitarian issue alone. It requires recovery and development solutions. Many displaced people need access to basic social services, protection, decent work, and livelihood opportunities. We will accelerate our efforts for recovery and resilience building.”

The host communities that have taken in displaced populations are also facing significant challenges. With increased pressure on infrastructure, resources, and social services, the poverty rate has surged in these areas as well. This is compounded by a decline in international financial support, with Official Development Assistance (ODA) falling from $4.7 billion in 2020 to $2.7 billion in 2022, as reported by UNDP. Ethiopia’s 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan is currently 47% funded, with a considerable gap in resources.

In response, both the Ethiopian government and the UN are focusing on addressing immediate needs while also investing in governance, social services, and economic opportunities. Their collaborative efforts aim to create conditions for the safe return, resettlement, and integration of displaced populations into host communities.

The UN has stressed that development-focused, government-led solutions are essential for Ethiopia’s long-term recovery and resilience. This approach aligns with the UN Secretary-General’s Action Agenda on Internal Displacement, which aims to find durable solutions to displacement crises worldwide. Ethiopia has been selected as one of the 15 countries to implement this Durable Solutions Agenda.

Raouf Mazou, UNHCR’s Assistant High Commissioner for Operations, emphasized the importance of a holistic approach, stating, “By supporting climate action, peacebuilding, and durable solutions to displacement, we can help Ethiopia achieve development progress and reduce suffering for millions. We call on donors to back these efforts in line with the UN Secretary-General’s Action Agenda.”

The new Durable Solutions Strategy emphasizes the integration of humanitarian, development, peacebuilding, and climate action efforts. As global displacement numbers hit historic highs, with more than 122 million displaced people worldwide as of June 2024, the UN is calling for a more comprehensive, integrated response that moves beyond emergency relief and addresses the systemic issues causing displacement.

The endorsement of Ethiopia’s National Durable Solutions Strategy is seen as a milestone towards implementing the UN’s Action Agenda. Ugochi Daniels, IOM Deputy Director General for Operations, stated, “The endorsement of the National Durable Solutions Strategy in Ethiopia is a milestone towards the implementation of the Action Agenda. After years of concerted efforts, Ethiopia is ready to step up cooperation with the regions for coordinated planning to support displaced communities rebuild their lives.”

As Ethiopia works towards recovery, it is clear that addressing internal displacement and the underlying factors of poverty and conflict will require coordinated, sustained efforts from both national governments and international partners. The UN agencies’ strategy represents a critical step towards ensuring that Ethiopia’s recovery is comprehensive and lasting, focused on building resilience, and creating opportunities for displaced and host populations alike.