This note from the field explores the purpose, process and value of using a sustainable-livelihoods framework and operational map to study refugee livelihoods. The current absence of a livelihoods framework specifically tailored to refugees has created a gap not only in research, but in policy development and application. This article reflects on the utility of this methodology to generate insight into the lives of refugees in four diverse contexts: Central African Republic (CAR) refugees in Cameroon; Rohingya refugees in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Syrian refugees in Zarqa, Jordan; and Syrian refugees in Istanbul, Turkey. The framework was helpful in that it enabled us to explore how refugees perceive their context, risks and possibilities as well their objectives, actions and strategies. As per Levine’s methodology, starting with refugees and their perceptions unlocked a new way of looking at the environment within which refugees try to sustain themselves and a deeper understanding of how refugees’ perceptions dictate their livelihood goals, strategies and actions. This article extends analysis to consider the broader policy implications that this specific methodological approach supports.
Publishing Organizations: Na'amal, Jobtech Alliance
Author(s): Dr Shuting Xia, Lorraine Charles
Publishing Organizations: ODI Global
Author(s): Caitlin Sturridge, Amanda Gray Meral, Kerrie Holloway, Simon Levine
Publishing Organizations: The Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies (JEMS)
Author(s): R.A. Rizka Fiani Prabaningtyas, Tri Nuke Pudjiastuti, Antje Missbach, Faudzan Farhana, Athiqah Nur Alami
Publishing Organizations: SSM - Mental Health
Author(s): Dr. Ilana Seff, Arturo Harker Roa, Raymond Atwebembere, Jennie Cottle, Ned Meerdink, Adriana Monar, Diany Castellar, Dr. Lindsay Stark
Publishing Organizations: Refugee Self-Reliance Initiative
Author(s): Dr. Ilana Seff, Dr. Lindsay Stark, Kari Diener, Kellie Leeson, Ned Meerdink, Alli Gillespie
Publishing Organizations: The World Bank
Author(s): Jan von der Goltz, Kirsten Schuettler, Julie Bousquet, Tewodros Aragie Kebede
Publishing Organizations: Norwegian Refugee Council
Publishing Organizations: Refugee Self-Reliance Initiative
Author(s): Climate Risks and Self-Reliance Technical Working Group (TWG)
Publishing Organizations: Jobtech Alliance, Na'amal, Hilton Foundation
Publishing Organizations: International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED)
Author(s): Boel McAteer and Kellie Leeson