Unemployment, inadequate housing are straining relations between IDPs and host communities in Ukraine, says report by OSCE Special Monitoring Mission

KYIV, 26 August 2016 – Challenges such as the lack of employment and inadequate housing that face both internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the host communities in which they live could be major potential triggers for strained relations between the two and lead to secondary displacement, says a new report issued today by the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM).

The report, Conflict-related Displacement in Ukraine: Increased Vulnerabilities of Affected Populations and Triggers of Tension within Communities, highlights the impact of the conflict in Ukraine that has forced thousands of people to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. Focusing on the long-term displacement of IDPs and their relations with host communities, the report is based on the findings of focus group discussions and individual interviews conducted with conflict-affected populations in 19 regions across Ukraine.

The report shows that displaced persons were usually welcomed with solidarity and understanding. However, as the resources of the host communities became increasingly scarcer, IDPs reported feeling a shift in attitude towards more frustration and indifference. In order to increase acceptance, some IDPs engaged in volunteer work with the local population.

Displaced persons experience various challenges. Nearly all IDPs interviewed stressed the unavailability of adequate affordable housing and concerns about a lack of socio-economic security, notably due to difficulties in securing employment and accessing social protection in their hosting communities. Armed hostilities, reported human rights abuses and constraints in accessing justice were presented as factors preventing safe and sustainable return.

As the report highlights, separation from their families, friends and social support networks caused by displacement makes IDPs vulnerable, particularly unaccompanied and separated children, female-headed households and elderly persons.

In conclusion, the report emphasizes the importance for displaced persons to fully enjoy their rights without discrimination and the necessity to fight stereotypes affecting IDPs and to build trust within communities. In this regard, any measure aimed at improving the situation of IDPs should also benefit the local communities in which they live. Finally, the international community should assist and support Ukrainian authorities in identifying solutions to the concerns described in the report.