SOLLIMS Sampler Special Edition | Page 52

3 . Sharing the responsibility across the international community is essential in order to reduce regional strain . In the wake of the Vietnam War , an international coalition led by the US initially resettled 450,000 Indochinese refugees . This type of coordinated international effort is necessary – and possible – for the current global refugee crisis . Addressing the crisis in Syria , particularly , requires sharing the burden of the surrounding region by increasing global refugee resettlement options and providing funding / resources to nations / agencies bearing the brunt of the influx .
4 . Integration efforts need to address concerns of both displaced people and host communities . Integration is only sustainable if real concerns of host communities are addressed , such as infrastructure strain , security , or cultural differences . One way to address these concerns is through education of the public about refugees and education of refugees about host nation laws and culture ( such as Norway ’ s gender classes ). Providing places for refugees to belong with an economic niche to fill can go a long way towards successful integration , as in villages across Italy .
5 . Refugee crisis response provides an opportunity for conflict prevention . Addressing root causes and ceasing ongoing violence is imperative to prevent further displacement . If not handled appropriately , displacement will likely set the stage for additional conflict , as when displaced persons settled land that did not belong to them in Timor-Leste . Integrating refugees into welcome communities , however , not only may lessen the likelihood of further instability but may also reduce risk of radicalization . For refugees hoping to return , addressing security / justice concerns is vital , such as by vetting security sector personnel in Kosovo .
As the current global movement of refugees continues , dilemmas of how to deal with trade-offs in migration have politically split communities here in the US and abroad . In this divisive climate , one final recommendation is for you – the reader – whomever you may be , and whether the current global refugee crisis has touched you personally ( yet ) or not : Don ’ t stop here . Become more informed . Learn about other current displacement – Burundians fleeing political violence , Central American children running from gang violence , the persecution of Yazidi and Rohingya peoples , and erupting displacement in Yemen . In a time when many people suffer worldwide due to forcible displacement , it is paramount that we share and apply lessons learned and best practices to improve response to these crises – and to forge hope that together , we can build a solution .
4 . PKSOI Points of Contact
Publication prepared by : Ms . Katrina Gehman , Lessons Learned Analyst Cover design : Mr . Chris Browne , Publications Coordinator PKSOI reviewer : Mr . Dave Mosinski , Lessons Learned Senior Analyst Lessons by : Ms . Gehman ( A-E , G-H ); Mr . Mosinski ( F ); COL Allen Irish ( I )
Contact Info : Mr . Dan French , Lessons Learned Branch Chief ( 717 ) 245-3031 // usarmy . carlisle . awc . mbx . sollims @ mail . mil
- - - - - - - - - - Publication approved by : COL Greg Dewitt , Director - - - - - - - - - -
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