2023 Global Refugee Forum; Reflections from the IofC Delegation

In 2023, The Global Refugee Forum (GRF) took place from the 13th – 15th December in Geneva, Switzerland. Every four years, UNHCR holds this Forum, bringing together diverse stakeholders to delve into practical strategies to not only mitigate the immediate challenges, but also tackle the root cause of forced displacement. Over the course of the 2023 conference, 4,200 participants from 168 countries attended the Forum, including representatives from our programme, Refugees as Re-Builders™ (RRB). Programme Manager, Dr Muna Ismail, Programme Coordinator, Amanda Clements, and Programme Assistant, Cecilia Salvati had the privilege of participating. Cecilia writes on their experience.

It was an extreme privilege to attend the 2023 Global Refugee Forum in Geneva, held in December of last year.

Ignacio Packer, Executive Director of Initiatives of Change Switzerland, led the RRB™ delegation, during this influential event held in the vibrant and picturesque city of Geneva. Our team, comprised by Dr Muna Ismail, the Programme Manager, Amanda Clements, the Programme Coordinator, and myself, was determined to be part to the global solution. At the core of our commitment was a pledge to the Global Refugee Compact to train 300 emerging leaders over the next three years. This initiative seeks to empower those affected by displacement, fostering the rebuilding and empowerment of both host and communities of origin. During the forum education was highlighted as not only a right but as an investment in the future well-being of individuals and communities. RRB’s™ platforms, offering refugees worldwide free access to essential knowledge and skills for rebuilding activities, exemplifies a holistic response to global needs. By making education accessible to those who need it most, our team created a sustainable model where refugees can subsequently train others, forming a circular module that becomes increasingly accessible and effective over time.

Attending the GRF allowed the team to position the RRB™ programme on the global stage and establish connections with diverse stakeholders. These connections have the potential to blossom into long-lasting partnerships, enhancing our programme’s reach and capabilities. One remarkable encounter was with Abdullahi Mire, the 2023 Global Laureate winner, a former refugee from Somalia dedicated to the right to education. His transformative impact, gifting over 100,000 books to displaced children in Kenya, underscored the potential of individual initiatives and education. We are honoured to have invited him to one of our future events.

While the forum certainly had room for improvement in certain aspects, it undeniably demonstrated a strong commitment to integrating refugee experiences into discussions and empowering them in decision-making processes. One of the standout side events, in my opinion, centred around local solutions to Africa’s displacement crisis. What set this event apart was its foundation in real-life experiences. The discussion underscored the crucial role of community leaders in comprehending and addressing the specific needs of refugees. It made it clear that collaborative efforts with these influential figures are essential to ensuring community acceptance and the effectiveness of any proposed solution.

Our Refugees as Re-Builders™ course resonates especially well with community leaders and representatives who possess the drive to rebuild and empower their communities. These individuals recognize the need for skills and knowledge to ethically represent their communities and make meaningful contributions. As Initiatives of Change emphasizes, the catalyst for change begins within oneself, with the potential ripple to families, communities and nations. Through the training of individuals, RRB™ effectively instigates change and empowerment, ultimately impacting entire groups.

Beyond the inspiring speeches, the conference’s memorable aspect was the genuine acts of kindness exhibited by every participant. A standout moment was a conversation with Dicko, a refugee entrepreneur in agrobusiness, who gifted me a beautiful bracelet crafted by his mother back home. This thoughtful gesture exemplified the unity that the conference brought about, showcasing personal connections and generosity that transcended backgrounds. The hospitality of Ignacio Packer, the IofC Switzerland representative and head of our delegation, was another highlight of the trip, showing us around Caux and Geneva, truly embodying a spirit of generosity and warmth.

The forum highlighted the importance of programmes like RRB™, reinforcing how capacity building can make a significant difference. In the words of King Abdullah II of Jordan, “Our global community cannot thrive if its most vulnerable are left behind.” The journey continues, and we remain committed to empowering refugees and contributing to lasting solutions on the global stage.

Article written by RRB™ Programme Assistant, Cecilia Salvati.