Programs in training and skills development were availed to refugees without a clear integration into the local labour market realities or the same opportunity availed to host communities.
This was followed by the adoption of the Global compact on refugees (GCR) implemented through the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF) that recognizes the need for increased international responsibility sharing, easing pressure on host countries and communities while working towards self-reliance of refugees while perusing peace in countries of origin that would enable a return of those displaced.
The International Labour Organisation, ILO together with its partners (namely UNHCR, UNICEF, IFC and the World Bank), financially supported by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, have joined forces to support the government of Kenya's efforts towards the realization of the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework, with the spirit and letter of the Global Compact on Refugees.
That is the reason for being of ILO Recommendation 205 on Employment and Decent Work for Peace and Resilience Recommendation (2017) and of the Guiding principles on the access of refugees and other forcibly displaced persons to the labour market (2016) that outline key considerations fostering social cohesion while engaging both communities in the labour market.
Caroline Njuki is the Chief Technical Advisor on Inclusive Jobs and education for host communities, refugees and other forcibly displaced persons at ILO Kenya
