On December 2, 2024, Let’s Help International (LHI) was proudly highlighted during the 4th Quarterly Informal Briefing on the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) for its outstanding contributions to advancing meaningful refugee participation. This acknowledgment underscores LHI’s pivotal role in empowering refugees to lead decision-making processes, particularly through its impactful initiatives within the Kyaka II Refugee Settlement in Uganda.
This Progress statement for the Multi-stakeholder Pledge on Meaningful Refugee Participation delivered by Najeeba Wazefadost from APNOR in Geneva, Switzerland, spotlighted LHI’s work as a leading example of empowerment, accountability and inclusion in refugee participation:
1. Amplifying Refugee Voices:
LHI has been at the forefront of ensuring refugee voices are heard, advocating for their inclusion in decision-making forums at local, national, and global levels using different means including it’s media agency RTSW-Refugees’ TV and Stories Worldwide.
2. Digital Empowerment for Refugee Women-led Businesses:
This flagship project empowered 90 women with digital skills, including online safety, social media marketing, and grant writing. The initiative fostered economic independence and leadership among refugee women while creating a ripple effect that indirectly benefited 2,700 community members.
3. Focus on Diversity:
By embracing diversity across age, gender, and disability, LHI ensured its programs addressed the varied needs of refugees, creating inclusive pathways for participation and leadership.
The progress statement also highlights significant strides in advancing meaningful refugee participation with organizations like KRLON (Kyaka Refugee Led Organisations Network) playing a pivotal role. KRLON’s governance and transparency training for community leaders exemplifies grassroots leadership, strengthening accountability and refugee-led decision-making in settings like Kyaka II Refugee Settlement. While initiatives like these showcase progress, the statement emphasizes persistent structural barriers, such as funding and legal constraints, which hinder full participation. The call for deeper commitments aligns with KRLON’s mission to amplify refugee voices and foster inclusive, equitable solutions through strengthened multi-stakeholder collaboration.
Accomplishing the Multi-stakeholder Pledge
LHI’s Multi stakeholder Pledge on Capacity Building in Localization was a key focus at the briefing. Recognized by UNHCR on the Global Compact on Refugees platform, this pledge aimed to empower local organizations and community leaders to sustainably deliver services to refugees.
The pledge was successfully fulfilled in 2024 through the Digital Empowerment for Refugee Women-led Businesses project. This initiative delivered:
- Comprehensive Training: Establishing a computer training center with modern resources and creating video courses for continued learning.
- Supportive Services: Providing transport refunds and childcare services, ensuring accessibility for all participants.
- Long-term Impact: Graduates have become digital champions, spreading knowledge within their organizations and communities, furthering LHI’s vision of self-reliance and dignity for refugees.
A Shared Commitment to Inclusion
The progress statement during the briefing also highlighted LHI as part of a growing movement among Refugee-Led Organizations (RLOs) working to build institutional capacities and expand access to sustainable funding. It recognized LHI’s ongoing advocacy to dismantle barriers that hinder meaningful refugee engagement, particularly funding constraints and legal challenges.
Gratitude to Supporters
LHI extends heartfelt thanks to the organizations and individuals who supported the preparation and delivery of the briefing. Special appreciation goes to Oxfam, Equal Asia Foundation, Apnor, Cohere, New Women Connectors, and Independent Diplomat, whose efforts in promoting meaningful refugee participation were invaluable. Their collaborative spirit and dedication underscore the power of multi-stakeholder efforts in driving sustainable change.
Continuing the Journey
As part of the Global Meaningful Refugee Participation pledge, LHI remains dedicated to fostering refugee leadership. This includes building stronger partnerships, advocating for resources, and implementing innovative projects that amplify refugee voices and create sustainable solutions for displaced communities.
Join the Movement
Let’s Help International invites stakeholders, partners, and the public to join in supporting refugee-led initiatives. Together, we can ensure refugees are not just included but are leading the way toward a more equitable and inclusive future.
For more about LHI’s work and how you can contribute, visit www.letshelpinternational.org.
Support our work: https://letshelpinternational.org/donate
Progress statement for the Multi-stakeholder Pledge on Meaningful Refugee Participation