The ICRMS organized a second policy dialogue titled “Urban Refugee Challenges: Navigating Economic and Social Realities in Urban Settings (Protection)” at BUITEMS, with a particular focus on the rights and protection of refugee children. Moderated by Syed Muaz Shah, the event brought together key stakeholders, including Dr. Abdul Rehman, Pro-Vice Chancellor of BUITEMS, and Arbab Talib Moula, Commissioner for Afghan Refugees, along with representatives from various NGOs, IRC, UN-IOM, Save the Children, the UNHCR, and legal experts.
Dr. Rehman welcomed participants and emphasized the urgent need for child protection within refugee populations. Attendees included Mr. Syed Muaz Shah, an Islamic Law and Human Rights Expert and Legal Consultant; Mr. Basit Gillani, Advocate of the High Court; Abdul Mateen Khan, a member of the Balochistan Bar Council; and representatives from the Social Welfare Department, Balochistan Police, and judicial advocates.
The discussions commenced with a presentation by Valerie Khan NCRC UNICEF, who highlighted critical facts and figures regarding refugee child rights and their protection. This data set the stage for an in-depth exploration of the unique vulnerabilities faced by refugee children in urban settings. Contributions from Arbab Talib Moula and other participants further illuminated the specific challenges related to economic hardship, access to education, and social integration. Each participant actively engaged in the dialogue, sharing insights and recommendations aimed at strengthening the legal and social frameworks for protecting refugee children’s rights.
The session concluded with heartfelt thanks to all attendees for their valuable contributions. The collaborative spirit of the discussions underscored a collective commitment to improving the lives of urban refugee children. The recommendations generated during the dialogue will be compiled and shared with relevant stakeholders to guide future policy initiatives focused on safeguarding the rights and welfare of these vulnerable children.
Policy Recommendations
- Enhance protection services: strengthening child protection mechanism, including reporting mechanism, and psycho-social support.
- Increased access to education: provides quality education, vocational trainings and recreational activities.
- Economic empowerment: support livelihood programs for refugee families and promoting economic stability.
- Health care access: ensure health care access, nutrition program and health services.
- Community Engagement: foster community understating, tolerance and inclusiveness through awareness campaigns.
- Collaborative governance; strengthening coordination among the government agencies, NGOs, UN agencies and local authorities.
Addressing these risks and vulnerabilities need multistakeholder approach, prioritizing refugee children’s safety, wellbeing and development in urban setting.
