Fourth Thematic Session Of The Global Compact On Refugees - Panel four: how can we make local solutions work for refugees and the communities in which they live?

​NRV Intervention - Ruham hawash 

​​Ladies and Gentlemen, ​

​Excellencies,
​
I'm a Palestinian-Syrian refugee living in Germany.

My experience in Citizens for Syria has proved to me that refugee led initiatives allow for the creation of local solutions, employment opportunities and to combat xenophobia. My experience has also shown me that refugees are the most legitimate and effective actors in fighting xenophobia.

As long as others speak on our behalf, we will not be able to demonstrate our integration, and develop a harmonious relationship with our host communities.

All too often, refugees are only seen as recipients of humanitarian aid.

Effective solutions can only be made and implemented through building self reliance schemes that involve us. To do this, we need better recognition of refugee skills and qualifications to prevent an inefficient allocation of human capital, in a given labor market. Refugees must be given flexible educational opportunities, as well as greater chances to gain employment through reduced bureaucratic burden.

We must also acknowledge the diversity between refugee community, and employ an inter-sectional approach when designing and implementing refugee focused projects.

Thank you.